Development and characterization of composite pectin/sodium alginate films crosslinked with zinc ions

Abstract

In this paper, physico-chemical and antimicrobial properties of films based on pectin/sodium alginate blends crosslinked by zinc ions were investigated. The polyglycerol was used as plasticizer. The blending of pectin with alginate improved properties such as tensile strength, elasticity and water vapour barrier properties, when compared to the neat pectin film. The introduction of the cross-linking points caused an appreciable change in the physical properties due to increased free volume during the cross-linking process with zinc ions. In addition, zinc-crosslinked films evidenced antimicrobial activity against pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus, Candida Albicans and Escherichia coli. Overall, the characteristics of the pectin/sodium alginate films crosslinked with zinc showed their potential interest as materials for wound dressing.