Pegylation of Zinc-Doped Copper Ferrite Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications
Zinc-substituted copper ferrite (Cu1-xZnxFe2O4) nanocomposites were synthesized in a polyethylene glycol (PEG) matrix via a sol–gel auto-combustion method to enhance biocompatibility and functional performance. Structural, optical, morphological, and magnetic properties were systematically investigated using XRD, FTIR, SEM, EDS, UV–Vis spectroscopy, and VSM. XRD confirmed a single-phase inverse spinel cubic structure, with crystallite sizes decreasing from 14.63 nm (pristine) to 9.14, 8.21, and 9.90 nm for x = 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6, respectively, based on the Williamson–Hall method. A slight reduction in bandgap energy (3.56–3.52 eV) was observed with increasing Zn content. FTIR analysis verified PEG functionalization, indicating improved stability and biocompatibility. SEM images revealed agglomerated nanostructures with rough surfaces, promoting reactive oxygen species generation and metal ion (Cu2+/Zn2+) release, which are beneficial for antimicrobial activity. Magnetic measurements demonstrated superparamagnetic behavior with near-zero coercivity, supporting biomedical applicability. The nanocomposites exhibited enhanced antibacterial and antifungal activities compared to standard drugs (cefixime and clotrimazole), with stronger effects against fungal strains. Additionally, notable antioxidant activity was observed. These findings highlight the potential of PEG-assisted Zn-substituted copper ferrite nanocomposites as multifunctional materials for antimicrobial and antioxidant biomedical applications.