UV-Light-Driven Fabrication of Antibacterial AgNPs-Decorated Nanocellulose/N-CQDs Free-Standing Composite Films

Abstract

In this study, we present a sustainable and green approach for the fabrication of antibacterial free-standing films by incorporating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) into a jute stick-derived nanocellulose and nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (N-CQDs) composite matrix via a UV-light-assisted process.Comprehensive characterization using XRD, FTIR, FE-SEM, EDX, and XPS confirmed the successful synthesis and uniform deposition of AgNPs within the fluorescent nanocomposite matrix. The resulting films exhibited excellent antibacterial activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae (100% inhibition) and Staphylococcus aureus (>90% inhibition). The demonstrated antibacterial efficacy, combined with the film's biodegradability and renewable substrate, highlights its potential for applications in antimicrobial packaging, water purification, and wound healing dressings. This work establishes a scalable and eco-friendly strategy for converting agricultural biomass into high-value functional nanomaterials.