Ag–Cu/Pmma Nanocomposites Produced By Modification of PMMA with Bimetallic EEW-Nanoparticles

Using the method of electrical explosion of copper and silver wires in an argon atmosphere, Cu–94Ag, Cu–65Ag, and Cu–22Ag bimetallic nanoparticles are manufactured. The resulting nanoparticles are characterized by the methods of transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. It is shown that irrespective of the component ratio all particles have spherical shapes, with copper and silver uniformly distributed in their volume. The phases identified in the samples correspond to silver- and copper-based solid solutions. The conditions for an ultrasonic dispersion of nanoparticle suspensions are selected. The sedimentation analysis data indicate that the minimal time of ultrasonic treatment at a power of 23 kW is 5min for Cu–65Ag and Cu–22Ag nanoparticles and 2 min for Cu–94Ag nanopowder. The fabricated nanoparticles are used as antibacterial modifiers of PMMA. The Ag–Cu/PMMA composites demonstrate a high antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli.