Synthesis of polyethylene/silica-silver nanocomposites with antibacterial properties by in situ polymerization

•Polyethylene/Silica-Ag nanocomposites were obtained through in situ polymerization of ethylene.•Nanocomposites showed antibacterial activity against S aureus, Salmonella spp. and E. coli.•Inhibition of bacterial growth occurs through surface contact.•The main feature of this work was the production of a thermoplastic with antibacterial properties.•Nanocomposites made with SiAg obtained by the acidic route showed greater inhibition of bacterial growth.