Optical and physical characteristics of chitosan/silver vanadate nanocomposites

Chitosan/AgVO 3 nanocomposite thin films were synthesized via solution casting method using water as solvent. Silver vanadate (AgVO 3 ) nanoparticles were prepared separately using a chemical precipitation technique. The structure and properties of the nanocomposite films were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), swelling ratio tests, and antimicrobial assays. FTIR analysis confirmed the interaction between the amide I group of chitosan and AgVO 3 nanoparticles. Increasing AgVO 3 content resulted in decreased optical bandgap of the nanocomposite films. XRD patterns showed the amorphous nature of the nanocomposites. SEM images revealed evenly distributed AgVO 3 nanoparticles within the chitosan matrix. The swelling ratio decreased with higher AgVO 3 loading, suggesting improved hydrolytic stability. The nanocomposite films demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria as well as Candida fungus. The tunable optical properties, swelling behavior, and antibacterial effects spotlight the potential of chitosan/AgVO 3 nanocomposites for versatile biomedical applications.