Cellulose⁻Chitosan Antibacterial Composite Films Prepared from LiBr Solution.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Cellulose and chitosan are biocompatible polymers with diverse applications.
• Developing composite materials can enhance the properties of individual polymers.
• Investigating cellulose-chitosan composites is crucial for advanced material development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize cellulose-chitosan composite films.
• To evaluate the effect of varying chitosan ratios on film properties.
• To determine the optimal composition for improved mechanical and antibacterial performance.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of cellulose and chitosan solutions in 60% LiBr.
• Fabrication of composite films at different weight ratios.
• Characterization using SEM for cross-section analysis.
• FT-IR spectroscopy to confirm hydrogen bonding.
• Mechanical testing (tensile strength, elongation, E-modulus).
• Antibacterial activity assessment.

Main Results:

• Composite films exhibited a color change from colorless to brownish yellow with increasing chitosan content.
• SEM revealed increased robustness in films with higher chitosan ratios.
• FT-IR confirmed successful hydrogen bond formation between cellulose and chitosan.
• Tensile strength and elongation improved with higher chitosan content, while E-modulus decreased.
• Significant enhancement in antibacterial activity was observed with increased chitosan.

Conclusions:

• Cellulose-chitosan composite films can be successfully prepared with tunable properties.
• Chitosan content significantly influences mechanical strength, elongation, and antibacterial efficacy.
• Optimized cellulose-chitosan composites show promise for applications requiring enhanced mechanical and antimicrobial functionalities.