Preparation and Characterization of Films Based on Alginate and Aloe Vera

Sodium alginate films with aloe vera extract were prepared by the casting/solvent evaporation technique. The resulting films were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and mechanical and water absorption tests. The in vitro degradation of the films was also investigated over 14 days. Results show that aloe vera contributes to both enhancing the thermal and mechanical properties of the films and decreasing the weight loss during in vitro degradation.