Optical behavior and its role in the antimicrobial properties of MgxCu1-xO nanoparticles

This study investigates the optical properties and antibacterial efficiency of copper-doped magnesium oxide (MgxCu1-xO) nanoparticles synthesized via a sol-gel method. The nanoparticles were prepared using magnesium and copper precursors with citric acid as a chelating agent, followed by gel formation, drying, and calcination at 500 °C. Structural analysis using XRD confirmed the formation of a crystalline phase, while FTIR spectra revealed characteristic vibrational modes indicative of metal-oxide bonds. The optical properties were examined using UV-Vis spectroscopy, showing a direct bandgap energy (Eg) of 3.15 eV. Antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli was evaluated using the disk diffusion method, demonstrating a zone of inhibition of 14 mm, indicating significant antibacterial potential. The results highlight the synergistic effects of magnesium and copper in enhancing the material\'s optical and antibacterial properties. These findings suggest that MgxCu1-xO nanoparticles can serve as effective candidates for antimicrobial applications, particularly in healthcare and environmental remediation.