Metal-polymer composites for water disinfection

Yanna Gurianov, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology and Materials, Ariel University, ariel, Israel
Faina Nakonechny, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology And Materials, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
Yael Albo, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology And Materials, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
Marina Nisnevitch, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology And Materials, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel

Contamination of drinking water by pathogenic bacteria can cause severe diseases and even lead to death. To overcome this problem, drinking water in the plumbing system can be treated by antibacterial materials embedded into the pipelines, thus eradicating pathogens before they reach the tap faucet. In Israel, most water distribution pipes are made of thermoplastic polyvinyl chloride or thermostatic cross-linked polyethylene, which do not possess antibacterial properties. To produce antibacterial pipes, metal nanoparticles can be embedded into polymer components. Metals, such as copper, have been used for centuries as antibacterial agents in industries, healthcare and agriculture. Multiple studies show that copper nanoparticles are much more effective as antibacterial agents than microparticles due to increased contact area with microorganisms. Another advantage of metal-polymer composites is in controlled release of metal ions into water for a prolonged period, providing inhibition of growth or even complete eradication of pathogenic microorganisms. Current study focuses on developing novel formulations for copper/copper oxides polymer nanocomposites with antimicrobial properties.