Author/Authors :
Ku¨u¨nal, Siim Tallinn University of Technology - Estonia , Kutti, Sander Tallinn University of Technology - Estonia , Rauwel, Protima University of Tartu - Estonia , Guha, Mithu University of Tartu - Estonia , Wragg, David University of Oslo - Norway , Rauwe, Erwan Tallinn University of Technology - Estonia
Abstract :
We report on the study of surfactant-free silver
nanoparticles synthesized using non-hydrolytic sol–gel
methods for applications in straw bale constructions.
Micro-organism infestation in green constructions is of
concern as their proliferation tends to induce health problems. We demonstrate the biocidal properties of these Ag
nanoparticles and their efficacy against fungi. Outdoor tests
with Ag nanoparticles have demonstrated the effective
protection of straw against micro-organisms. Indoor tests
using broth liquid are compared with a method of testing
we recently developed where the possible nature of the
biocidal properties of the silver nanoparticles are further
probed. In contrast to the commonly reported results, this
study shows that Ag nanoparticles synthesized using nonhydrolytic sol–gel methods have antifungal properties
against common fungi in outdoor conditions which
demonstrate high potential in related applications.
Keywords :
Silver nanoparticles , Sol–gel , Antifungal properties , Green housing , Toxicity
