Bimodal applications of LDH-chitosan nanocomposite: water treatment and antimicrobial activity

Chitosan-LDH (layered doubled hydroxide) composite was prepared for removal heavy metals and antimicrobial activity. It was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Scanning electronic microscope (SEM). Studying various physicochemical parameters such as the effects of pH, adsorbent amount, and contact time for removing heavy metals were performed. The adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherm model were done to understand the adsorption process. The prepared composite exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against different gram positive (Lactobacillus sakei LMG 2313, Corynebacterium sp, Staphylococcus aureus 5247) and gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli AO5). Results were recorded in terms of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), which is the lowest concentration of antimicrobial/antifungal agent that will inhibit the visible growth of a microorganism after overnight incubation.