Research Article

Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity and Cytotoxicity of Active Carbon Cellulose Fabrics Functionalized with Silver Nanoparticles

Volume: 18 Number: 1 January 31, 2026

Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity and Cytotoxicity of Active Carbon Cellulose Fabrics Functionalized with Silver Nanoparticles

Abstract

Activated carbon (AC) is widely used in many fields as an environmentally friendly and effective adsorbent due to its high surface area, porous structure, and surface functionalization capability. It is particularly effective in the adsorption of organic compounds, toxins, and certain pollutants. However, in its pure form, AC lacks antibacterial properties and may even support microbial growth. In this study, the antibacterial and cytotoxicity properties of cellulose-based fabric containing AC with added silver nanoparticles (AgNP) were investigated using the ultrasonic bath impregnation method. Antimicrobial activity was tested against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria according to the ASTM E2149-13a standard. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay on L929 fibroblast cells after 24-hour exposure. Results showed that the AC/AgNP composite fabric effectively inhibited bacterial growth and exhibited no cytotoxic effects, maintaining high cell viability. These findings suggest that the AC/AgNP composite is both antibacterial and biocompatible, making it a promising candidate for medical textile applications such as wound dressings and face masks.

Keywords

Keywords Activated Carbon , Fabric , Silver Nanoparticles , Cytotoxicity

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APA
Kaya, H., Ocak Araz, Ş., & Çerçi, N. A. (2026). Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity and Cytotoxicity of Active Carbon Cellulose Fabrics Functionalized with Silver Nanoparticles. International Journal of Engineering Research and Development, 18(1), 22-28. https://doi.org/10.29137/ijerad.1782055