Omani research study develops eco-friendly method to combat bacteria, fungi

Times of Oman

15 hours ago

Muscat: The National University of Science and Technology has developed an innovative and environmentally friendly method to repurpose used aluminum foil as a sustainable source for producing aluminum oxide nanoparticles.
A research study demonstrated that these nanoparticles exhibit significant effectiveness in combating bacteria and fungi, making them promising for various biological applications.
Titled 'Eco-Friendly Synthesis and Characterization of Aluminum Oxide Nanoparticles from Waste Aluminum Foil for Antibacterial, Anti-fungal and Anti-Corrosion Applications," the study addresses the growing issue of aluminum waste, which accumulates in millions of tons annually and is typically disposed of in landfills.
The research aligns with the urgent need to develop advanced recycling technologies to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. By creating a green synthesis method for aluminum oxide nanoparticles from discarded aluminum foil, the study offers a practical solution to aluminum waste accumulation while exploring the nanoparticles' potential applications in energy storage devices, antimicrobial agents, and corrosion protection.
This approach transforms waste into high-value functional materials, promoting sustainable practices with broad environmental and industrial benefits.
Led by Omani researcher Reem Hilal Al-Maamari from the College of Engineering at the National University of Science and Technology, the research team highlighted the nanoparticles' wide-ranging potential. In healthcare, they could be used to manufacture medical tools and antibacterial coatings, helping reduce infections in hospitals and health centres.
For environmental and waste management, the method enables sustainable aluminum foil recycling, significantly cutting waste volumes and delivering long-term ecological benefits.
In the industrial sector, these nanoparticles could be incorporated into anti-corrosion coatings, particularly for metal and architectural applications.
Their antimicrobial properties also make them ideal for water purification, where they could be used in efficient filtration systems—a viable solution for communities facing water scarcity. In the food industry, the nanoparticles show promise in active packaging technologies, extending shelf life and reducing microbial contamination. Agriculturally, they could serve as natural antifungal agents, enhancing soil and plant health.
The research team emphasized the importance of promoting nanoparticle use, particularly in healthcare, for manufacturing antimicrobial medical tools and surfaces to curb infection transmission in medical facilities. They also recommended their adoption in metal industries, where adding them to protective coatings could mitigate corrosion, especially in humid and marine environments.
For water purification, the nanoparticles' antibacterial properties make them valuable in remote or water-scarce regions. In food packaging, integrating them into materials could enhance product preservation and minimize microbial risks. The team further advocated for their agricultural application as seed or soil treatments to reduce fungal infections and improve crop quality.
The study's findings underscore the transformative potential of repurposing aluminum waste into high-performance nanomaterials, fostering sustainability across multiple sectors while addressing pressing environmental and industrial challenges.