Applied Chemical Engineering

Investigation of novel organic-based anti-microbial agents with polyolefins

Saleh Alkarri

School of Packaging, Michigan State University

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59429/ace.v7i2.5506

Keywords: Anti-microbial activity; E. coli K-12 MG1655; S. aureus ATCC 6538P; non-leachable; ROS; compounding; dyes; Nouvex N950-9010 MB

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Abstract

This study investigated the anti-microbial efficacy of Nouvex N950-9010 MB, an organic-based master batch, when integrated into polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The focus centers on its effectiveness against two common bacterial strains: E. coli K-12 MG1655 and S. aureus ATCC 6538P. The master batch was compounded at a 5 wt.% loading concentration with PP and HDPE, and was utilized to create monolayer and multilayer films. The findings reveal significant anti-microbial activity at both 4-hour and 24-hour intervals. SEM analysis confirmed homogeneous mixing and optimal adhesion within the films. Thermal stability, assessed via DSC and TGA, remained consistent, with variations within experimental error margins. Surprisingly, FTIR results indicated no substantial differences between modified and unmodified materials, suggesting that Nouvex N950-9010 MB. preserves material integrity. Mechanical properties, including Izod impact and tensile strengths, remained stable in the modified materials. Moreover, the modified PP and HDPE exhibited improved oxygen and water vapor barrier properties (OTR and WVTR) compared with their neat counterparts. UV spectra validated the non-leachability of Nouvex N950-9010 MB, aligning with the manufacturer’s claims. A groundbreaking revelation from the study is that this master batch functions via reactive oxygen species (ROS), marking a pioneering discovery in the field of novel anti-microbial agents. The research demonstrates Nouvex N950-9010 MB’s potential as a powerful and safe solution for antimicrobial applications, opening new avenues for further exploration and practical implementation.

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