Green-Synthesis of Nanochitosan- Zinc oxide Nanocomposite from Sepia prashadi as a Promising Antimicrobial Agent for Oral Healthcare
TL;DR
The prashadi-based nanochitosan–zinc oxide nanocomposites showed strong antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens, including Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans, and offer a sustainable alternative to traditional synthetic materials.
Abstract
The present study describes an eco-friendly way to produce nanochitosan–zinc oxide nanocomposite. It uses byproducts from Sepia prashadi as a renewable biopolymer source. This biogenic method turns marine waste into useful materials. It also helps create multifunctional nanomaterials in an environmentally responsible way. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed key functional groups. This shows the composite formed through hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed the nanocomposites had various shapes, ranging from spherical to irregular. Their sizes ranged from nanometres to micrometers. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated ZnO was embedded in the chitosan matrix, making it appear absent. The nanocomposites showed strong antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens, including Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans. Their inhibition was better than their individual components. These results highlight the promise of S. prashadi-based nanochitosan–zinc oxide nanocomposites as biocompatible antimicrobial agents for oral health. They offer a sustainable alternative to traditional synthetic materials.