Blooming Cu2O: Cauliflower-like nanostructures with PVP-assisted size control for adsorption and antibacterial activity

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Lathifah Puji Hastuti, Desinta Dwi Ristiana, Saptarini

2026 Journal of the Indian Chemical Society Vol. 103 Issue 5 Article Cited by 0

Abstract

Cu2O nanomaterials were successfully synthesized and systematically characterized to evaluate their structural, adsorption, and antibacterial properties. XRD analysis confirmed the formation of crystalline Cu2O, while FESEM revealed a cauliflower-like morphology with particle sizes ranging from 0.72 to 0.86 nm, and a narrower distribution observed upon the addition of PVP. In adsorption studies using crystal violet (CV), Cu2O exhibited a maximum removal capacity of 54%, with the process following a pseudo-second order kinetic model (K2 = 0.0264 g mg−1 min−1, R2 = 0.997). Antibacterial tests against Escherichia coli demonstrated a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 97.656 ppm and a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 195.31 ppm, indicating significant antibacterial effectiveness. These results indicate that the synthesized Cu2O nanomaterials possess dual functionality, serving both as an effective adsorbent for dye removal and as a potent antibacterial agent. Overall, this study highlights the potential of Cu2O as multifunctional materials for environmental remediation and antimicrobial applications, while also providing insights for further optimization to enhance their practical performance. © 2026 Indian Chemical Society.

Affiliations

Graduate School, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, 40132, Indonesia; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Brawijaya University, Malang, 65145, Indonesia