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Updated: May 14, 2026
04:42
Bacterial Cellulose Spheres that Encapsulate Solid Materials
Published on: February 26, 2021
Biocompatible and Antimicrobial Cellulosic Support via Bioactive Emulsion-Based Film.
Angela Danila1,2, Laura Chirila3, Carmen-Mihaela Popescu4,5
1Faculty of Industrial Design and Business Management, "Gheorghe Asachi" Technical University of Iasi, 29 Prof. Dr. Docent D. Mangeron Blvd, 700050 Iasi, Romania.
Polymers
|May 13, 2026
Summary
This study developed bioactive films using pectin, oregano, and thyme extracts on cotton for topical applications. These functionalized textiles show antimicrobial properties and minimal cytotoxicity, offering promising biocompatible solutions.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biotechnology
- Textile Engineering
Background:
- Polymer-based films are utilized across industries due to biodegradability and functional properties.
- Bioactive films offer potential for enhanced material functionalities, including therapeutic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize bioactive emulsion-based films using high-methoxy pectin (HMP), oregano essential oil, and thyme extract.
- To evaluate the functionalization of cellulose supports with these bioactive films for topical applications.
- To assess the biocompatibility and antimicrobial activity of the resulting bioactive textiles.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of bioactive emulsions with varying recipes and application onto cellulose supports.
- Analysis using SEM-EDS, ATR FT-IR spectroscopy, and PCA.
- Assessment of biocompatibility on HaCaT human keratinocytes and antimicrobial activity assays.
Main Results:
- SEM confirmed film formation on textile supports, with homogeneity improved by glycerin plasticizer.
- FT-IR and PCA spectra indicated successful incorporation of pectin, oregano oil, and thyme extract.
- Functionalized textiles demonstrated minimal cytotoxicity and significant antimicrobial activity.
Conclusions:
- Active emulsions containing pectin, oregano essential oil, and thyme extract can create biocompatible and antimicrobial active films on cellulosic supports.
- These bioactive textiles show potential for topical applications requiring antimicrobial and biocompatible properties.
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