An engineered, biocide-grafted TiO2-based nanohybrid material with enhanced photocatalytic and antimicrobial activity

Abstract

Water pollution demands urgent global attention. Nanotechnology offers a green decontamination alternative, but current solutions fall short in terms of efficiency, scalability, and long-term protection. This study introduces a novel nanohybrid material, TiO₂-NCO/E, obtained by grafting Econea® biocide onto TiO₂ anatase nanoparticles. A suite of methodologies was used to scrutinize its physical-chemical structure, composition, morphology, optical properties, and stability. The new TiO₂-NCO/E (0.5 g/L) exhibited improved photocatalytic performance, notably a 78% increase in a methylene blue degradation kinetic rate under visible (450 nm) light compared to pristine TiO₂. Furthermore, the TiO₂-NCO/E hampered the growth of World Health Organization-prioritized Gram-positive and Gram-negative waterborne pathogens in dark and UV-A irradiation conditions, enhancing its antimicrobial impact. The characterization of the mechanisms of action of the novel TiO₂-NCO/E revealed that this nanohybrid material targets bacterial cell membranes and induces metabolic activity changes and oxidative stress in bacteria. Additionally, insights into the morphology and biophysical changes on inactivated methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and V. cholerae bacteria following treatment with the TiO₂-NCO/E revealed synergistic antimicrobial effects from both the biocide and TiO₂. Overall, the findings highlight the tailoring nature of TiO₂, supporting its use in water decontamination processes. This study aims to inspire further research and development in pursuing sustainable and green solutions to environmental pollution.