Study on heat resistance and antibacterial sustainability by compositing of cationic gemini-type surfactants and zirconium phosphate

Abstract

Cationic surfactants have long been used as antibacterial agents and recently many gemini-type surfactants containing two tertiary amine compounds have been developed. However, their application as antimicrobial agents has been limited because of their low heat resistance and low sustainability of antibacterial activity. In this study, we imparted additional functionality to cationic gemini-type surfactants by compositing with zirconium phosphate. The composites retained excellent antibacterial activity against E. coli and their heat resistances were significantly improved. Furthermore, sustained release of the cationic gemini-type surfactants was achieved by intercalation into zirconium phosphate, improving the sustainability of antibacterial activity. Therefore, the use of cationic gemini-type surfactants as antimicrobial agents is expected to be expanded.