Multifunctional Propargylated microcrystalline cellulose-biphenyl Triazole derivative: Adsorption and antibacterial activity

Abstract

Wastewater containing dyes and bacteria poses significant environmental and public health risks. This study presents a novel, bio-based dual-function material with efficient dye removal capabilities and potent antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria. Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was first functionalized with propargyl groups, then underwent a click reaction with 4,4′-diazido-1,1′-biphenyl, yielding propargylated-MCC-biphenyl triazole. The successful synthesis of the novel compound was confirmed via Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR). FTIR revealed the presence of a band at 2192 cm⁻¹ corresponding to C[tbnd]C bond, confirming the formation of the propargyl group, while the ¹H NMR showed a singlet at 9.15 ppm, confirming the formation of the triazole ring. The degree of substitution of modified cellulose indicated effective grafting of the nitrogen-rich heterocyclic group. The propargylated-MCC-biphenyl triazole exhibited effective adsorption of Rhodamine B, with optimal performance at pH 2, 1.5 g/L dosage, and 30 min contact time. The kinetic data indicated that the adsorption involves both physisorption and chemisorption, with a slight dominance of physical interactions. The equilibrium data fit well to both the Freundlich and Langmuir models, with a slight preference for the Langmuir model. The antibacterial potential of Prop-MCC-biphenyl triazole was demonstrated against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, resulting in a substantial reduction in colony-forming units. This dual functionality is attributed to the synergistic effect of the triazole and biphenyl moieties, which enhance dye adsorption and disrupt microbial integrity. Overall, propargylated MCC-biphenyl triazole has strong potential for use in wastewater remediation.