Durian rind-synthesized micron scale silver flakes-ecoflex composite coating for fomite defence

Abstract

The utilization of waste rinds from durian fruit (Durio zibethinus)for the green synthesis of micronic-scale silver flakes presents a novel approach to biosynthesis. Unlike conventional chemical methods for producing micron silver structures, this method harnesses pharmacologically active molecules present in durian waste to synthesise antibacterial silver flakes. The synthesized durian silver flakes exhibited significant antibacterial activity against MRSA 21455, MRSA ATCC 700699, and E. coli 25922, as evidenced by notable zones of inhibition and a 13-log reduction in the cell viability assay. The results hold promise in combating accelerating antibiotic resistance and hospital-acquired infections, particularly those caused by Staphylococcus aureus by using silver flakes in material preparation. Furthermore, the composite prepared using Ecoflex has demonstrated its application as a coating and in the fabrication of antibacterial mobile phone cases.