Multifunctional PVA/CuO Biofilm: Structural, Optical, Anticorrosive, Antimicrobial, Photocatalytic, and DFT Analysis

PVA/CuO nanocomposites (NCs) were synthesized using the solution casting method to explore multifunctional applications. Characterization techniques, such as FTIR, XRD, SEM-EDX, TGA/DTA, and optical studies, aid in structural elucidation. FT-IR and p-XRD techniques proved the incorporation of CuO nanoparticles (NPs) into the PVA. The SEM images confirm the scattered CuO NPs with a minimal level of aggregation. The addition of NPs to a PVA polymeric film reduces the energy band gap, making it efficient for optical and UV-blocking applications. Magnetic susceptibility results confirmed that the NCs exhibit paramagnetic behavior. Anticorrosion tests performed in 1.0 M HCl on the Al sheet showed a high polymeric film inhibition efficiency (97.15%). The NC-based polymeric film shows high photocatalytic degradation (70.0%) of MB dye. Antibacterial testing (ZOI) confirmed their high antibacterial activity (19 mm) against Staphylococcus aureus. The soil burial biodegradability test demonstrated the gradual degradation behavior of the PVA/CuO NC polymeric film over a period of 24 days. Water absorption, as well as exposure to damp environments, has a minimal effect on the mechanical stability of the polymeric film. The DFT study was useful for optimizing the geometry of PVA/CuO and establishing the nature of the interaction between PVA and CuO NPs. The data demonstrate the multifunctional nature of the PVA/CuO NCs-based polymeric film.