Zinc oxide nanoparticles as antibacterial agent

Zinc oxide nanoparticles in suspension form can be used as antibacterial agents against the E. Coli disease-causing bacterium. The ZnO particles actually damage the E. Coli's membrane walls, while also being generally regarded as safe for human beings and animals. The decrease the ZnO's diameter improves the bacteriostatic activity and increases ZnO concentration. Finally, dispersing the solution via PEG (polyethylene glycol) or via PVP (polyvinylpyrolidone) polymers allows for an improvement in solution stability, while at the same time maintaining the antibacterial benefits of ZnO. Such results have great promise for industries such as food, textiles, packaging and healthcare.