Preparation and characterization of in situ ionic cross-linked pectin films: unique biodegradable polymers

The study aimed to investigate the swelling and degradation of calcium pectinate (CaP) films that were cross-linked by the innovative approach of adding aqueous calcium chloride (CaCl2) to pre-formed pectin films in situ. The films, cast from low methoxy pectin, were dried and cross-linked by immersion in a selected CaCl2 solution for a selected period. It was found that CaCl2 concentration, immersion time, and temperature affected the films' dissolution and swelling behaviors in simulated intestinal fluid. With lower CaCl2 concentration, more time was needed to form a proper film. Heat accelerated the cross-linking reaction, probably by elevating the cross-linked solution flux into the matrix. Depending upon cross-linking conditions, similar calcium contents in the CaP films resulted in different swelling and degradation behaviors. The degree of pectin esterification (DE) affected the films' degradation rate. The role of pectin molecular weight and DE on the films' mechanical properties was determined by stress/strain analysis.