Production of nanocomposite films functionalized with silver nanoparticles bioreduced with rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) essential oil

This study produced nanocomposite films with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) bioreduced with rosemary (Ros-marinus officinalis L.) essential oil. The nanocomposites were produced by the casting technique with gelatin/ carboxymethyl cellulose/citric pectin and functionalized with 15, 30, and 50% (v/v) AgNPs. The results demonstrate that the rosemary essential oil presented various bioactive compounds, and the major compounds were alpha-pinene, bornyl acetate, and 1,8-cineol. The AgNPs showed a particle size lower than 50 nm, zeta potential of-30 mV, and polydispersity index of 0.35. UV-vis spectroscopy, TEM, SEM, and XRD confirmed the synthesis of AgNPs with spherical shapes, diameters of 50 nm, and crystalline structures. The nanocomposite films con-taining AgNPs demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity against eight pathogenic microorganisms. The incor-poration of AgNPs affected the opacity and improved the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. In conclusion, the eco-friendly nanocomposite produced can be a sustainable material for biological applications.