Michela Marsico

Visiting PhD student (University of Basilicata, Italy)

Composite materials with antimicrobial activities obtained through eco-sustainable processes

 

PhD supervisor: Prof.ssa Angela De Bonis

Supervisor in Erlangen: Prof. Aldo R. Boccaccini

The aim of the project is the creation of a metal-biopolymer material and the subsequent evaluation of its antimicrobial activity. For this purpose, the metal component, consisting of silver nanoparticles, is obtained by laser ablation process in liquid, green technique; in the same way the chitosan used as a polymer will be extracted from alternative sources and through production techniques not impacting the environment. The antimicrobial capacity will be evaluated as well as the possible use of the composite material in biomedical coatings for applications in medical implants. The possible use in the agri-food field, e.g. to create innovative packaging that can limit food contamination, will be also evaluated.