Palm kernel oil-based polyurethane film: Biocompatibility and antibacterial activity studies

Abstract

In this study, polyurethane (PU) film was prepared from palm kernel oil-based polyester (PKO-p) via pre-polymerization with isocyanate/polyol group ([NCO/OH]). PU films were physically characterized to investigate the mechanical properties, thermal behavior, water uptake, water vapor transmission rates as well as biocompatibility and antibacterial activities against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli). Results showed that PU 2 film exhibited optimum mechanical performance and thermal properties with the water vapor transmission rates at 267 ± 17 g m−2 d−1, comparable to commercial dressing. Biocompatibility studies revealed that PU films were non-cytotoxic to the human skin fibroblast cells (CRL2522) and exhibited bactericidal effect against both bacteria.