Two novel low molecular weight gelator-driven supramolecular metallogels efficient in antimicrobial activity applications

Abstract

A remarkable ultrasonication technique was successfully employed to create two novel metallogels using citric acid as a low molecular weight gelator, in combination with cadmium(II)-acetate and mercury(II)-acetate dissolved in N,N-dimethyl formamide at room temperature and under ambient conditions. The mechanical properties of the resulting Cd(II)- and Hg(II)–metallogels were rigorously examined through rheological analyses, which revealed their robust mechanical stability under varying angular frequencies and shear strains. Detailed characterization of the chemical constituents within these metallogels was accomplished through EDX mapping experiments, while microstructural features were visualized using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) images. Additionally, FT-IR spectroscopic analysis was employed to elucidate the metallogel formation mechanism. Significantly, the antimicrobial efficacy of these novel metallogels was assessed against a panel of bacteria, including Gram-positive strains such as Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus epidermidis, as well as Gram-negative species like Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results demonstrated substantial antibacterial activity, highlighting the potential of Cd(II) and Hg(II)-based citric acid-mediated metallogels as effective agents against a broad spectrum of bacteria. In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive exploration of the synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial properties of Cd(II) and Hg(II)-based citric acid-mediated metallogels, shedding light on their promising applications in combating both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial infections. These findings open up exciting prospects for the development of advanced materials with multifaceted industrial and biomedical uses.