Patents

Disclosed herein is a novel polycationic peptide conjugated graphene-metal nanoeomoposite comprising graphene, metal nanoparticles and polycationic peptide. The compound characterized by black to reddish brown in color, sparingly soluble in water as well as pular solvents, but insoluble in non-polar solvents. The compound exhibits stability at wide pH (2.0-10.0) and temperature (4- 40 °C) range and also carries net positive charge at pH values < 7.0. The process of preparation of a novel polycationic peptide conjugated graphene-metal nanoeomoposite involves synthesis of graphene-metal nanocomposite, followed by amine modification of the nanocomposite, which is then covalently bound with polycationic peptide. The compound has a combination of catalytic antibacterial, anti-fouling and adsorptive properties. The compound demonstrates catalytic activities in hydrogenation reaction of pnitrophenol, and oxidation of orthophenyldiaminc, and monosaccharides, and therefore can be used for synthesis of small organic molecules. The compound can also be used for separation and removal cations, anions, and microorganisms from water.