Enhancing Chitosan Fibers: A Dual Approach with Tripolyphosphate and Ursolic Acid

Chitosan, a well-established biomaterial known for its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and bioactivity, has been the focus of extensive research in recent years. This study explores the enhancement of chitosan fibers' properties through wet impregnation with either ursolic acid (UA) or cross-linking with tripolyphosphate (TPP). In the first experiment, chitosan fibers were treated with UA, for varying immersion set points (1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h). FTIR, SEM, and UV-Vis spectroscopy analyses demonstrated a chemical reaction between chitosan and UA, with stability reached after 2 h of immersion. Antibacterial testing revealed that chitosan fibers impregnated with UA exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, notably Staphylococcus aureus. The second experiment involved modifying chitosan fibers' surfaces with a 1% w/v TPP solution for the same periods of time (1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h). Subsequently, the investigation involved FTIR, SEM, and dynamometry analyses, which revealed successful cross-linking between chitosan and TPP ions, resulting in improved tensile strength after 2 h of immersion. This dual-approach study highlights the potential of chitosan fibers for diverse applications, from wound-healing dressings to antibacterial materials against Gram-positive bacteria.