Fabrication of N-halamine polyurethane films with excellent antibacterial properties

Abstract

An N- halamine precursor, namely, 2-amino-5-(2-hydroxyethyl)-6-methylpyrimidin-4-one (AHM), was used as a chain extender in the preparation of a series of N- halamine polyurethane (PU) films, in order to also instill antibacterial properties. The mechanical properties, thermodynamic performance, and antimicrobial performance of the functionalized PU films were systematically studied. The results showed that the addition of AHM could improve the thermodynamic and mechanical properties of the developed PU films. Conducting tests in the presence of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus as the model microorganisms revealed that prior to chlorination the antibacterial properties of the chlorinated PU-AHM-Cl films improved significantly relative to the analogous films. The excellent antibacterial properties and the overall superior performance of the PU-AHM-Cl films allow their potential application in microbiological protection materials and related fields. Graphical abstract The synthesis and activity of a series of polyurethane (PU) films functionalized with an antibacterial N- halamine precursor (AHM) are reported. The PU-AHM films exhibit excellent thermodynamic and mechanical properties. The chlorinated variants demonstrate superior storage, stability, and antibacterial effects.