Radiation-induced graft polymerization of acrylic acid onto poly(tetrafluoroethylene-perfluorovinyl ether) copolymer films: complexation with some transition metals and biological activity

• Published in: European polymer journal 2001, Vol.37 (1), p.161-166
• Main Authors: El-Sawy, Naeem M, Al Sagheer, Fakhreia
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Acrylics; Applied sciences; Biological activity; Complex formation; Complexation; Exact sciences and technology; Exchange resins and membranes; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Graft copolymers; Graft polymerization; Grafting (chemical); Plastic films; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Polymerization; Polytetrafluoroethylenes; Radiation; Radiation effects; Synthesis (chemical); Technology of polymers; Vinyl resins
• ISSN: 0014-3057; 1873-1945
• DOI: 10.1016/S0014-3057(00)00096-3

The radiation-induced grafting of acrylic acid onto poly(tetrafluoroethylene-perfluorovinyl ether) copolymer film was carried out to synthesize graft copolymer membranes of complexing ability with some selected transition metal ions such as Cr III, Mn II, Cu II, Ag I and Cd II. The complex formation of these graft copolymer–metal complexes was studied by atomic absorption spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence, IR, UV and electron spin resonance spectrometry. The overall results suggest octahedral geometry for both Cr III and Mn II but square planar for Cu II. The results revealed the high stability of the obtained ligand–metal complexes. The biological activity of the grafted film and its complexes with various metal ions was investigated under the same conditions. Silver (I) complexed membrane had a strong biocidal effect for all tested bacteria. The biological activity for Cr III complex has been effected on E. coli and S. aureus, whereas the Cd II complex has its effect on E. coli, B. anthrax and B. cereus. The Cu II complex has only antifungal activity. No biological effect has appeared for both the grafted film or Mn II complexed one on either bacteria or fungi.