Synthesis of Uniform Zinc Peroxide Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Application

Peroxides and metals have been emerged as alternative antibacterial agents. However, the application of peroxides or metals alone for antibacterial treatment cannot yield satisfactory results. Combined therapy based on peroxides and metals is expected to generate synergistic effects. In this work, uniform zinc peroxide nanoparticles with an average size of 60 nm were synthesized as antimicrobial agent. Zinc peroxide nanoparticles were relatively stable in a neutral environment and showed quick release of hydrogen peroxide and zinc ion in acidic environment. After incubation with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, large amount of reactive oxygen species was generated. Zinc peroxide nanoparticles illustrated outstanding antibacterial activity for Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, holding a great potential to be a highly efficient antibacterial agent.