Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Activity of Mg-Doped CuO Nanoparticles

This study aims to investigate the effect of magnesium (Mg) doping on the characteristics and antibacterial properties of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs). The Mg-doped CuO NPs were fabricated by the co-precipitation method. NPs were characterized by X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Photoluminescence (PL). Broth microdilution, agar-well diffusion, and time-kill assays were employed to assess the antibacterial activity of the NPs. XRD revealed the monoclinic structure of CuO NPs and the successful incorporation of Mg dopant to the Cu1−xMgxO NPs. TEM revealed the spherical shape of the CuO NPs. Mg doping affected the morphology of NPs and decreased their agglomeration. EDX patterns confirmed the high purity of the undoped and Mg-doped CuO NPs. FTIR analysis revealed the shifts in the Cu–O bond induced by the Mg dopant. The position, width, and intensity of the PL bands were affected as a result of Mg doping, which is an indication of vacancies. Both undoped and doped CuO NPs exhibited significant antibacterial capacities. NPs inhibited the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. These results highlight the potential use of Mg-doped CuO NPs as an antibacterial agent.