Active nano-functionalized bio-sileceous hybrid additive for antimicrobial coating formulations

Abstract

The mitigation of microbial colonization in built environments remains a critical challenge to infectious disease control and the extension of the service life of material protection systems. In this context, the development of sustainable antimicrobial coatings has gained increasing attention, particularly those based on environmentally benign active agents. This work explores the development of bio-derived antimicrobial additives by integrating Ag nanoparticles with diatomaceous earth using plant-assisted synthesis routes. Aqueous vegetable extracts were employed as reducing and stabilizing agents to obtain metal nanostructures under eco-compatible conditions. The resulting hybrid systems were evaluated to identify compositions with antimicrobial performance under the experimental conditions used in this study, considering the influence of synthesis parameters on nanoparticle functionality. Selected formulations were subsequently incorporated into paint systems as alternatives to conventional biocides. The developed coatings inhibited bacterial and fungal growth in the assays performed, supporting the potential of plant-mediated Ag-containing nanostructures supported on natural mineral carriers as a strategy to reduce biodeterioration while limiting the use of conventional biocidal additives.