Preparation and antibacterial activity of Fe₃O₄@Ag nanoparticles

Bifunctional Fe3O4@Ag nanoparticles with both superparamagnetic and antibacterial properties were prepared by reducing silver nitrate on the surface of Fe3O4 nanoparticles using the water-in-oil microemulsion method. Formation of well-dispersed nanoparticles with sizes of 60 ± 20 nm was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. X-ray diffraction patterns and UV–visible spectroscopy indicated that both Fe3O4 and silver are present in the same particle. The superparamagnetism of Fe3O4@Ag nanoparticles was confirmed with a vibrating sample magnetometer. Their antibacterial activity was evaluated by means of minimum inhibitory concentration value, flow cytometry, and antibacterial rate assays. The results showed that Fe3O4@Ag nanoparticles presented good antibacterial performance against Escherichia coli (gram-negative bacteria), Staphylococcus epidermidis (gram-positive bacteria) and Bacillus subtilis (spore bacteria). Furthermore, Fe3O4@Ag nanoparticles can be easily removed from water by using a magnetic field to avoid contamination of surroundings. Reclaimed Fe3O4@Ag nanoparticles can still have antibacterial capability and can be reused.