Fabrication of antimicrobial nanocomposite mat using Lokta fiber

Lignocellulose biomass is being used in a wide range of applications including packaging materials, biofuels, paper, and cardboard. In Nepal, the biomass obtained from Lokta bushes (Daphne bhoula and Daphne papyracea) is traditionally being used by local paper industries and enterprises to make handmade paper and other value-added products. To increase the trade value of handmade paper and increase the sustainability of local industries, it is important to explore next-generation applications. In this study, lignocellulose biomass obtained from Lokta bushes was processed chemo-mechanically, pulped, and converted to a cellulose mat. The caliper, grammage, apparent density, Cobb 60, brightness, opacity, and tensile strength properties of the cellulose mat were systematically measured. The mat was then doped with Cu and Ag/ZnO nanoparticles following traditional reduction and hydrothermal methods to get a nanocomposite mat. The nanocomposite mat was characterized using UV–Vis, XRD, SEM, and TGA techniques. Characteristic features of the nanoparticles were confirmed through the obtained data. The antimicrobial activity of the nanocomposite mat was tested against two bacterial strains (Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis) and one fungal strain (Candida albicans), demonstrating significant antimicrobial activity, as indicated by zones of inhibition. The results obtained from this study suggested that Lokta lignocellulose biomass can be used in laboratory settings for the fabrication of a nanocomposite mat and the mat can be potentially used for antimicrobial packaging applications.