Enhanced Activity of Leather Materials Coated with Silver, Copper and Graphene Oxides-Decorated TiO2 Nanocomposites and Gamma Irradiated

It is known that antimicrobial surface treatments are one of the measures that can reduce the spread of viral, bacterial or fungal infections that threaten humans’ life. The excessive use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of resistant microorganisms. This study presents the potential of nanocomposites to impart durable antimicrobial properties, which can be enhanced by the use of gamma radiation, even after two months of activation. Leather surfaces finished with composite titanium dioxide nanoparticles decorated with silver, copper oxide and/or graphene oxide were investigated before, immediately after, and after 60 days of gamma irradiation treatment. The antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 was found to be maintained, and even slightly increased over time compared to unirradiated leathers. Analyses of the morphology and composition of the surface of treated leathers using SEM/EDS, ATR/FTIR, as well as photo activity tests allowed the identification of structural characteristics and the modifications induced by gamma radiation activation. Evaluating the resistance properties of leathers finished with the new nanoparticle composites compared to those finished classically confirmed the quality of the applied technologies. These results provide a solution for antimicrobial treatment of medical equipment, including footwear, with potential applications in other areas such as furniture, aircraft or car upholstery, clothing and bags.