Novel composite film based on cassava starch and poly (diallyldimethylammonium chloride) reinforced with nanocrystalline cellulose for bacteria and coronavirus inactivation

Author(s)

de Carvalho, Guilherme Ribeiro ; Delarmelina, Camila ; Duarte, Marta Cristina Teixeira ; Lona, Liliane Maria Ferrareso

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: POLYMER BULLETIN; v. 81, n. 15, p. 18-pg., 2024-06-26.

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the impact of poly (diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) and crystalline nanocellulose (CNC) on cassava starch-based film (CS), focusing on their structural, physicochemical, and antimicrobial properties. Three film types were analyzed: a control film (CS), a film with CS and PDADMAC (CS/PDADMAC), and films containing CS, CNC, and PDADMAC simultaneously (CS/CNC/PDADMAC). The opacity values were influenced (p < 0.05) by incorporating PDADMAC and CNC, decreasing film transparency. Furthermore, due to its hydrophilic characteristics, an increase in water vapor permeability (WVP) values of 86.57-111.6% was observed by incorporating PDADMAC and CNC compared to CS film, respectively. SEM revealed that all films had smooth surfaces without cracks. Furthermore, FTIR analysis confirmed chemical interactions between the film's constituent polymers. Notably, the tensile strength (TS) improved significantly with the addition of CNC, with a notable increase of 82.1% compared to the other films. Furthermore, the CS/CNC/PDADMAC film exhibited antiviral activity, inactivating 90-99.9% of the MHV-3 coronavirus within 1 and 1440 min of direct contact. This film also demonstrated effective inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria. The film attains its antimicrobial effect through electrostatic interaction involving the quaternary ammonium groups of PDADMAC and the phospholipid membrane of the microorganism. Therefore, this study promotes an innovative approach to reduce the spread of pathogens through potential contamination on plastic film surfaces. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 23/12419-8 - Valorization of cellulose and lignin to produce materials with potential application in the medical and packaging areas
• Grantee: Liliane Maria Ferrareso Lona
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants