Enhancing antibacterial characteristics of paper through silver-exchanged zeolite coating for packaging paper

This study aims to create paper packaging by developing paper coated with silver-exchanged zeolite that provides the necessary antibacterial properties. Various coating solutions containing different concentrations of silver-exchanged zeolite (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.4%) by weight of starch mixed with starch were prepared. The study investigated the effects and properties of these silver-coated papers. Examination of the microscopic structure of the surface coated paper revealed that the coating solution effectively filled the pores of the paper, resulting in a smoother surface with even distribution of silver-exchanged zeolite. The basis weight and thickness of the coated paper increased after the coating process. The paper coated with silver-exchanged zeolite demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of both Gram-negative bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-positive bacteria (Escherichia coli). Notably, the paper coated with 0.1% silver-exchanged zeolite exhibited improved mechanical properties and a higher water contact angle compared to uncoated paper (61°–88°). This suggests that paper coated with silver-exchanged zeolite has the potential to be used as antibacterial paper for packaging food products.