Copper(I) Halide Nanoparticles Stabilized by Functionalizing Agents
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antimicrobial compositions face challenges in effectively targeting a broad range of microbes and pathogens due to uncertainties regarding the conditions for nanoparticle penetration and stability, particularly with copper(I) salt nanoparticles, which have shown promise but require stabilization and functionalization to enhance their antimicrobial efficacy.
Innovation Solution
The development of copper(I) halide nanoparticles, such as copper iodide (CuI), stabilized with functionalizing agents like polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), which are formulated to maintain stability in various carriers, enhance solubility, and improve adherence to microbial surfaces, thereby increasing their antimicrobial effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If copper(I) salt nanoparticles are used as antimicrobial agents, then broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity is achieved, but particle stability and solubility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces functionalizing agents as intermediary substances that coat the copper(I) salt nanoparticle surfaces. These functionalizing agents serve as mediators between the nanoparticles and the aqueous environment, preventing direct interaction that would cause aggregation while allowing antimicrobial activity to proceed. The functionalizing agents stabilize the particles without eliminating their biocidal properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates composite structures by combining copper(I) salt nanoparticles with functionalizing agents to form stabilized nanoparticle compositions. This composite approach integrates the antimicrobial copper core with the stabilizing functionalizing agent shell, achieving both stability and biological activity simultaneously. The composite structure allows the particles to remain dispersed in aqueous solutions while maintaining their antimicrobial efficacy.
2Reliability
If copper(I) salt nanoparticles are used, then antimicrobial effectiveness is improved, but particle agglomeration increases
Solution Approach 1:
Functionalizing agents act as intermediary layers between copper(I) salt nanoparticles, preventing direct particle-to-particle contact that would lead to agglomeration. These intermediaries maintain particle separation through steric or electrostatic repulsion while allowing the nanoparticles to remain bioavailable and effective against microorganisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies surface parameters of copper(I) salt nanoparticles by introducing functionalizing agents with specific chemical properties. This changes the surface charge, hydrophobicity, or steric characteristics of the particles, thereby altering their interparticle interaction parameters to prevent aggregation while preserving antimicrobial activity.
3Reliability
If silver-based particles are used, then antimicrobial activity is achieved, but cost and light sensitivity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive silver-based antimicrobial particles with more economical copper(I) salt nanoparticles. While copper particles may have different stability characteristics, they provide comparable or superior antimicrobial activity at lower cost. The functionalizing agents extend the effective lifespan of these copper particles by preventing degradation and aggregation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of copper particle instability and reactivity into a benefit by using functionalizing agents to control these properties. The same chemical reactivity that could lead to degradation is harnessed to enhance antimicrobial effectiveness, while the functionalizing agents prevent unwanted side effects like aggregation and premature degradation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The copper(I) halide nanoparticles demonstrate significant broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, outperforming silver-based particles, with enhanced stability and targeted delivery, effectively inhibiting microbial growth and reproduction across various microorganisms.
Implementation Method 1
at least one functionalizing agent in contact with the particle, the functionalizing agent stabilizing the particle in suspension
Implementation Method 2
such that an amount of ions are released into the environment of a microbe sufficient to inhibit the growth of or kill the microbe
Implementation Method 3
The oligodynamic effect is demonstrated by other metals, specifically gold, silver, copper, zinc, and bismuth
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a composition having antimicrobial activity comprising particles comprising at least one inorganic copper salt; and at least one functionalizing agent in contact with the particles, the functionalizing agent stabilizing the particle in a carrier such that an antimicrobially effective amount of ions are released into the environment of a microbe. The average size of the particles ranges from about 1000 nm to about 4 nm. Preferred copper salts include copper iodide, copper bromide and copper chloride. Preferred functionalizing agents include amino acids, thiols, hydrophilic polymers, emulsions of hydrophobic polymers and surfactants.