Antimicrobial nanocomposite of Se, Ag, Cu nanoparticles for enhanced hygiene and comfort

• Suneeta Panicker,*  
• Saba Anjum,  
• Sana Anjum,  
• Abhishek Nair

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of bacterial and fungal infections associated with sanitary napkins and diapers underscores the critical need for innovative antimicrobial solutions. Without antibacterial properties, bacteria can exacerbate existing skin conditions or cause new ones, such as diaper rash in infants or irritation around the genital area. Method: Here, we prepared nanocomposite (NC) comprising selenium, silver, and copper nanoparticles that were synthesized by utilizing Cassia fistula leaf extract, checked its antimicrobial properties and investigated its application onto a cellulose matrix commonly utilized in sanitary napkins and diapers. Antimicrobial assays of individual nanoparticles and their NC were conducted against E. coli, Proteus, Staphylococcus, Bacillus, Candida, and three strains of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria using well diffusion assay. The NC was also compared with a commercial brand of sanitary napkin Sofy antibacterial (manufactured by Unicharm India Private Limited, Gururam, India). Results: Selenium nanoparticles showed highest antimicrobial activity among the three. The NC incorporated cellulose matrix of sanitary napkins showed significant antimicrobial activity against all the test organisms compared to individual nanoparticles and even the known antibiotics like doxycycline and fluconazole, whilst the cellulose matrix of Sofy antibacterial napkin did not show any antimicrobial activity. Moreover these NCs were found to be effective against the three tested MDRs. Conclusion: This research underscores the potential of nanotechnology in revolutionizing the design and functionality of everyday consumer products for addressing global health challenges. Further investigation of various other related medicinal properties of these NCs will allow their commercialisation in the sanitary napkins.

Keywords

Antimicrobial assay, Cassia fistula, Diapers, Microbial infections, Sanitary napkins, Se/Ag/Cu Nanocomposite