Biosynthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles Functionalized with Cetrimonium Bromide Exhibits Enhanced Antimicrobial Activity against Pathogenic Bacterial Strains and Effective Photoaccelerated Detoxification of Sulfamethoxazole

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide This study presents a platform for the biosynthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) whose performance is significantly enhanced upon functionalization with a cationic surfactant. Using pomegranate peel extract, we synthesized SeNPs and functionalized them with cetrimonium bromide (CTAB). Comprehensive characterization confirmed the formation of spherical, hexagonal, and crystalline SeNPs with successful CTAB functionalization. The CTAB functionalization dramatically enhanced the nanoparticles’ bioactivity and catalytic functions. Additionally, the CTAB-functionalized SeNPs demonstrated superior antioxidant activity in comparison to biosynthesized SeNPs. They also exhibited stronger antimicrobial activity against pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii, and effectively disrupted biofilms formed by Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli . Additionally, the CTAB-functionalized SeNPs exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance, efficiently degrading the organic pollutant methylene blue and the antibiotic sulfamethoxazole. This work conclusively demonstrates that CTAB surface functionalization is an effective strategy to enhance the multifunctional capabilities of green-synthesized SeNPs, making them highly potent for both environmental and biomedical applications.