Eco-friendly composite nanofibrous membranes loaded with chitosan microcapsules for enhanced antibacterial and deodorant application

Traditional textiles are conductive to breed germs that might cause infection or unpleasant odor, especially in public hygiene products. Moreover, biosafety, environmental protection and cost are crucial considerations for antimicrobial materials. Herein, we developed a biocompatible microcapsules/nanofibrous membrane using eco-friendly and facile strategy. The microcapsules loaded with the Epigallocatechin and gallate (EGCG) were synthesized through an ion-crosslinking reaction between chitosan (CS) and sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP). Additionally, the addition of octadecyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (STAC) could further enhance the antibacterial activity . Following that, the microcapsules were combined with the polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers . The resultant composite nanofibrous membrane exhibits a slow release effect, an enjoyable deodorant activity, and strengthened antibacterial activity through contact-killing and biocide-releasing. Besides, the membrane behaved a low degradation rate , without compromising its mechanical and hydrophilic properties after a 20-day degradation. These findings provided a biocompatible and practical approach for antimicrobial and odor-proof material for hygienic and sanitary products.