The Properties of Nano Silver (Ag)-Geopolymer as Antibacterial Composite for Functional Surface Materials

The purpose of this research was to produce and characterize nano silver (Ag)-geopolymer composite for functional surface materials. Geopolymer matrix was synthesized through alkali activation of metakaolin and nano silver was added into geopolymers paste with a mass of 0, 0.5 g, 1 g, 1.5 g and 2 g keeping the mass of metakaolin constant. The mixture was cured at 70 degrees C/1 hour and stored for 7 days before conducting any measurements. The structure of the resulting composite was examined by using Rigaku Mini Flex II x-ray diffraction (XRD). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) coupled with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) was used to examine the morphology of the composite surface as well as the capability of the composite to isolate the growth of bacteria. The thermal properties of composites in terms of their working temperature and enthalpy were examined by using Perkin Elmer Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The heat resistance of composite was observed through calcination at 750 degrees C for 18 hours. The results indicate that the resulting composites were able resist up 750 degrees C. SEM examinations showed that nano Ag-geopolymer composites were effectively restraining the growth of bacteria. It is suggested that nano Ag-geopolymer composites are suitable for functional surface applications such as floor and wall, kitchen ware utensils, hospital instruments, art and decoration materials.