The effect of synthesis method and oxidizing agent on cytotoxicity and ecotoxicity of polyaniline

Abstract

The unique properties of polyaniline (PANI), as representative of conducting polymers (CPs) predetermine their use in biomedical field. While the material properties of PANI prepared by chemical or microwave synthesis are well known, their biological properties have not been adequately addressed and compared. To fill this gap, PANI powders were prepared by either chemical or microwave synthesis using different oxidizing agent (ammonium persulfate, APS vs potassium iodate, KIO3) and studied. The effect on cytotoxicity and ecotoxicity were determined according to the ISO protocol and inhibition of bioluminescence in Photobacterium phosphoreum, respectively. The significant effect of both factors, the synthesis route and oxidizing agent, on biological performance was confirmed. The choice of optimum preparation condition for PANI synthesis highly improved its cytotoxicity and ecotoxicity compared to previously described PANI forms. Results of the here presented work are crucial for the further utilization of PANI in wide spectrum of biomedical applications.