Abstract:
A series of preeminent poly vinyl alcohol (PVA)/starch hydrogel membranes was prepared
with varying contents (0, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, 1.5g) of piper nigrum and cinnamomum verum by
solution casting method. The comparison was made between the pure PVA/starch hydrogel
and natural antimicrobial agents assembled hydrogel membrane matrix. Glutaraldehyde was
added as a cross linker in ethanol/HCL dispersion to form acetal bridges. Glycerin was
selected as a plasticizer to increase the ductility of hydrogel membranes. The concentration
of natural antimicrobial agents incorporated in hydrogel has significant effect on the physical
properties as compared to pure hydrogel, determined by swelling behavior, gel fraction,
moisture retention and water vapor transmission rate. The prepared matrix was characterized
by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation (FTIR).
The tensile strength shown by incorporated membranes was 9.8 MPa which had sufficient
strength to be used as a wound dressing. Antimicrobial activity was investigated against
Escherichia coli and methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. Hydrogel membrane with
1.5g of natural antimicrobial agents showed highest inhibitory activity and further
characterization had been performed on 1.5g assembled natural antibacterial agent’s
membrane. It was further tested against fungus strains i.e., Aspergillus Flavus, Aspergillus
Oryzae and Aspergillus Subolivaeus. The prepared membrane could be used as a wound
dressing to provide a cushioning effect on the skin.
