UV-Blocking and Light-Responsive Poly (ϵ-Caprolactone)/ZIF-8 Multifunctional Composite Films for Efficient...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Antibacterial photodynamic therapy (APDT) is a promising sterilization method.
• Poor stability of photosensitizers like Rose Bengal (RB) limits their application.
• Developing advanced materials is crucial for effective APDT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize novel composite films for APDT applications.
• To enhance the stability and efficacy of Rose Bengal (RB) using ZIF-8 nanoparticles.
• To evaluate the antimicrobial, mechanical, and biocompatibility properties of the developed composite films.

Main Methods:

• Rose Bengal (RB) was encapsulated within ZIF-8 nanoparticles (RB@ZIF-8 NPs).
• RB@ZIF-8 NPs were incorporated into a composite film matrix of poly (ϵ-caprolactone) (PCL) and polyvinyl alcohol-quaternary ammonium chitosan (PVA-QCS), forming PQZ films.
• Characterization included tensile strength testing, water repellency, UV-blocking assessment, and biocompatibility assays (MTT method with RAW264.7 cells).

Main Results:

• The synthesized RB@ZIF-8 NPs improved photosensitizer stability.
• The resulting PQZ composite films demonstrated excellent photodynamic sterilization and resistance to bacterial adhesion.
• Tensile strength increased significantly (approx. 1.8 times PCL film), and films exhibited water repellency and UV-blocking properties.
• Biocompatibility tests confirmed no significant inhibition of cell growth, indicating safety.

Conclusions:

• PQZ multifunctional composite films show significant potential as novel antimicrobial materials for food packaging.
• The integration of RB@ZIF-8 NPs within the composite film enhances APDT efficacy and material properties.
• These findings support the development of advanced materials for improved food safety and preservation.