Development of sustainable and antimicrobial film based on polybenzoxazine and cellulose

Abstract

A new class of bio based polymer blends have been prepared from a modified chitosan based benzoxazine precursor (E-ch) and amino cellulose (AC). AC was derived from cellulose with excellent film-forming, biocompatibility and biodegradability property. E-ch was synthesized from eugenol, modified chitosan and paraformaldehyde. The chemical structure was confirmed by FT-IR and ¹H NMR analyses. Bio films were prepared by mixing E-ch and AC with diluted acetic acid, in different ratios. These films were further cross-linked by applying heat, via ring-opening polymerization of benzoxazine without any curing agent. FT-IR and DSC were used to study the effects of AC on E-ch to form cross-linked network polymer films [poly(E-ch)/AC]. Hydrogen bonding interactions were found to exist between poly(E-ch) and AC. These kinds of interactions considerably improve the mechanical and thermal properties and char yield of the polymer films. Additionally, these biofilms; poly(E-ch) and poly(E-ch)/AC have been examined for bio-activity with S. aureus. It is confirmed that these bio-films are effective in inhibiting bio-film related infection. In a similar way, both the bio-films act against C. albicans and thus avoid the formation of mycological infection. These results expose that poly(E-ch) and AC bio-films are capable to act as anti-microbial and anti-fungal agents.

Keywords: Cellulose; Chitosan; Polybenzoxazine; Polymer film.