Antibacterial Activity of Synthetic ZnO/Pectin on Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract

The hydrothermal method is commonly used to synthesize ZnO nanoparticles because it produces products with high crystallinity and purity. However, this method is relatively time-consuming. This research combines hydrothermal and precipitation methods to produce ZnO in a shorter time. ZnO was also synthesized using a capping agent to control the smaller particle size as confirmed by the aging time needed to precipitate the particles. The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles can be added to food and beverage products as zinc additives and antibacterial agents which are beneficial to the body. Furthermore, the ZnO nanoparticles were tested for their antibacterial activity using Staphylococcus aureus as a model for gram-positive bacteria.