Preparation and characterization of antibacterial gels of galactomannan/ZnO nanocomposite in carbopol-based matrix using mesquite seeds as the biopolymer source

ABSTRACT

Nanocomposite gels are novel materials mainly used in the medical field for the control drug release and distribution. In this study, the effect of the concentration of galactomannan/zinc oxide nanocomposite in a polymeric Carbopol matrix to obtain a functional nanocomposite gel was studied. The swelling, thermogravimetric, rheological, and antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were evaluated. The results indicate that there is a direct effect between the amount of the employed nanocomposite and the properties studied in the gels. In this regard, we present a formulation that demonstrates that the prepared nanocomposite gel has ideal properties to be used in the medical field as an antibacterial agent.