The use of zinc oxide nanoparticles to enhance the antibacterial properties of light-activated polydimethylsiloxane containing crystal violet

Abstract

Crystal violet–zinc oxide mixtures were incorporated into polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) by a simple two-step method. The antibacterial activity of the polymer was tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus under white light conditions comparable to that found in a UK healthcare environment. The modified polymer demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against both bacteria (>4 log reduction in bacterial numbers). To the best of our knowledge, this is the most potent light-induced antibacterial polymer reported to date.