Effect of storage time on the antimicrobial properties of chitosan

Abstract

AbstractChitosan (CS) is well known as one of the natural polymers. It is one of the familiar antibacterial materials owing to its safety, non‐toxicity and biocompatibility. However, its prolonged capability to act as an antibacterial agent is not yet investigated in detail. i.e., as to how much time it can withstand its ability as an antibacterial agent is very significant for practical purposes. Hence, in the present study, CS solution and thin films in different ratios were prepared and were stored up to 24 months. Later observations were carried on different samples after storage time to assess its potential toward antimicrobial activity. It was noted that CS thin films had superior properties even after storage time of 24 months when compared to solution and powder forms. In addition to the above, morphology of the nanofilms and the presence of functional groups were also studied in detail.