Effect of copper ion incorporation on structure and antibacterial properties of ZnO nanoparticles

Zinc oxide nanoparticles through precipitation process as a cost-effective and flexible process by two different routes were synthesized. The effect of changing process parameters on the structure, size and antibacterial properties of nanoparticles was investigated. FE-SEM micrographs showed that the nanoparticles synthesized using stabilizing agent and lower heat treatment temperature have a smaller in size and positive effect on the antibacterial properties of the nanoparticles. Also, copper doped zinc oxide nanoparticles with appropriate concentration of copper ion showed increased antibacterial activity against Gram positive Staphylococcus aureus than pure nanoparticles.