Electrostatic layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly of multilayer films has been the focus of many recent research efforts to prepare novel coatings, and a wide range of functional properties can easily be obtained through the simple alternate adsorption of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes in solution. The use of naturally occurring and sustainable materials has become increasingly used in water purification as an economical means to produce potable water in the underdeveloped world. In this work, we combine these ideas through the synthesis of LbL films using glycerol-based negatively charged colloidal carbon particles and the positively charged Moringa oleifera cationic protein (MOCP). The carbon nanomaterial has been shown in our laboratory to have the enhanced ability to adsorb pollutants including lead, cadmium and organic dyes, and the MOCP is known to have anti-microbial properties, reduce turbidity and adsorb heavy metals Characterization of the composite films included the investigation of factors that affect film growth, topography, composition, and stability using techniques including UV-vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Results showed that the film thickness and structure depended on the ionic strength used in film deposition. SEM indicated relatively uniform coatings, exhibiting some globular formation. The practical use of these coatings was evaluated by forming films on common quartz sand and results showed an enhanced ability to remove lead, cadmium and methylene blue dye contaminants. The anti-microbial potential of these coatings was evaluated using coated sand and testing with a non-pathogenic form of Escherichia coli using simple bacterial culture techniques.

Multi-functional coatings formed from the electrostatic self-assembly of glycerol-based carbon nanoparticles and Moringa oleifera Cationic Protein (MOCP)

2019 Spring National Meeting

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