The research on a self-decontaminating surface has received significant attention because of the growth of pathogenic microorganisms on surfaces. In this study, a novel and simple technique for producing an active surface with antimicrobial functionality is demonstrated. A tethering platform was developed by grafting the biocide ampicillin (Amp) to a nanoclay and dispersing the nanoclay in a UV-curable acrylate coating applied on polypropylene films as the substrate. A coupling agent, [3-(glycidyloxy)propyl]trimethoxysilane, was used as a linker between the nanoclay and Amp. The Amp-functionalized clay was further modified with an organic surfactant to improve the compatibility with the coating. Several characterization assays, such as Fourier infrared transform analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray diffraction, were conducted to confirm the presence of Amp in the nanoclay. Transmission electron microscopy images revealed that the clay particles were well dispersed in the coating and had a partial exfoliated morphology. The active coating surface was effective in inhibiting the growth of Gram-positive Listeria monocytogenes and Gram-negative Salmonella Typhimurium via contact. These findings suggest the potential for the development of active surfaces with the implementation of nanotechnology to achieve diverse functionalities.
Keywords: acrylate coating; active surface; ampicillin; covalent grafting; nanoclay.