Booth Id:
MCRO006T
Category:
Microbiology
Year:
2021
Finalist Names:
Pinedo, Cindy (School: Paulding County High School)
Sabah, Mehreen (School: Paulding County High School)
Abstract:
Various studies in the past have shown colloidal silvers, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), exhibiting anti-bacterial properties, as they cause microbial membrane damage that results in suppressed cell growth and even cell death. For this reason, AgNPs are beginning to commonly be used in the medical field, as they do not carry the risk of bacteria becoming resistant to its effectiveness. Today many studies have shown that the ground decoration materials used in flooring carry and release toxins and bacteria that can be harmful to human health. A solution to this growing concern is developing antibacterial floor technology using AgNPs. The focus of this research was to first identify the specific bacteria on the floors of room 812 in Paulding County High School. The second focus of this research was to synthesize AgNPs from an aqueous extract of Epipremnum Aureum (E. Aureum) leaves and develop an antibacterial resin that can be applied to floors in order to minimize the growth of bacteria. The first goal of this research was achieved through multiple microbiological tests such as catalase tests, oxidase tests, motility tests, and urease tests. The second goal of this research was partially achieved as the AgNP fiberglass resin did show a significant decrease in microbial growth when analyzed with OD600 using the spectrophotometer. However, the AgNP fiberglass resin developed was not optimal for flooring due to its adhesive feeling.