Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
Demonstrates enhanced antibacterial properties in fibers made from chitosan and PVA, suggesting their biomedical potential.
Growing interest in natural and eco-friendly materials has driven the search for sustainable alternatives to synthetic antimicrobial agents. This study aims to develop antibacterial fibers based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) reinforced with chitosan (CTS) using an environmentally friendly wet-spinning process. Morphological analysis revealed surface irregularities that increased with CTS content, confirming its effect on fiber microstructure. Thermal analyses by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that CTS incorporation decreased the melting temperature while improving thermal stability. Mechanical testing demonstrated enhanced tensile strength (σs) and Young’s modulus (E) due to strong intermolecular interactions between CTS and the PVA matrix. The highest σs (1045 MPa) was obtained at 3 wt% CTS, while E reached 7.1 GPa at 5 wt%. Antibacterial tests against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli confirmed strong activity attributed to –NH2 groups of CTS disrupting bacterial membranes. These results highlight the potential of PVA/CTS fibers for biomedical applications such as wound dressing and antibacterial materials.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Zdiri et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: