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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
16:19
Synthesis, Cellular Delivery and In vivo Application of Dendrimer-based pH Sensors
Published on: September 10, 2013
An Integrated Bio-Based Film With Dynamic Covalent Networks for Coupled pH-Responsive Release and Colorimetric
Tongtong Wang1, Hui Sun1,2, Yunxuan Weng1,2
1School of Advanced Materials and Future Technology, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, China.
Chemistry (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|August 5, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a smart film using chitosan and cellulose for integrated curcumin encapsulation, controlled release, and visual pH sensing. This innovative bio-based material offers enhanced properties and intuitive environmental monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Chitosan and cellulose are abundant biopolymers with potential for advanced material applications.
- Developing smart materials with integrated functions like controlled release and sensing is a key research area.
- Curcumin possesses antioxidant and therapeutic properties but requires effective delivery systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate a multifunctional smart film using quaternary ammonium chitosan (HACC) and dialdehyde cellulose (DAC).
- To achieve integrated encapsulation, controlled release, and visual pH indication of curcumin within the film.
- To explore the pH-responsive behavior and antioxidant properties of the developed smart film for innovative packaging applications.
Main Methods:
- Dynamic Schiff base cross-linking was employed to create a pH-responsive polysaccharide network.
- Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used for structural analysis.
- Curcumin was incorporated, and its release kinetics, swelling behavior, antioxidant activity, and color changes were evaluated under different pH conditions.
Main Results:
- The HACC-DAC film exhibited a pH-responsive dynamic network structure.
- Curcumin incorporation improved the film's tensile strength by ~60% and barrier properties, with antioxidant activity reaching ~90% DPPH scavenging.
- The film demonstrated pH-dependent swelling and release kinetics, with rapid release at pH 4.0 and sustained release at pH 7.0 and 9.0.
- Reversible color changes from yellow to reddish-brown indicated pH variations, enabling visual sensing.
Conclusions:
- A novel bio-based smart film integrating encapsulation, controlled release, and visual pH sensing was successfully developed.
- The dynamic Schiff base cross-linking strategy provides a versatile platform for creating responsive polysaccharide materials.
- This innovative material holds promise for applications in smart packaging and advanced delivery systems.
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