Developing antimicrobial calcium alginate fibres from neem and papaya leaves extract.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate an alternative approach to developing antimicrobial alginate fibres using plant extracts, such as those from neem and papaya leaves. Aqueous leaves extract from neem, papaya and their hybrid combinations were used as solvent to develop sodium alginate fibres. Sodium alginate polymer containing these extracts was extruded in a calcium chloride (CaCl2) bath to develop neem (NE), papaya (PE) and their hybrid combinations-based calcium alginate fibres (H-1 to H-5). The surface morphology, spectra, liquid absorption, tensile strength and antimicrobial activity of these developed fibres were measured. NE fibre showed greater tensile strength than PE. The liquid absorption property of all developed fibres decreased, but showed antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus and reduced bacterial growth up to 85% when compared with pure calcium alginate fibre. Neem, papaya and hybrid extract-based calcium alginate fibres have the potential to be used as wound dressings.