Microstructure and Physical Performance of Genipin Crosslinked Gelatin/Lysozyme Films with Controlled-release Behavior
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Abstract:
Hydrophilic gelatin films are of weak controlled release behavior for antimicrobials, especially at high humidity. In order to solve this problem, novel gelatin films with controlled release of lysozyme were fabricated via the crosslink by a naturally biochemical crosslinker (genipin). Tensile property, water vapor permeability (WVP), swelling and thermal properties of composite antimicrobial films were evaluated, and their surface morphologies were visualized by AFM. The possible structure-function relationship of the films was discussed. Upon increasing genipin concentrations, mechanical resistance and stiffness of the films were enhanced, and the tensile strength (TS) gradually increased from 9.72 to 18.80 MPa. Both water stability and thermal stability were improved by genipin crosslinking, and the swelling decreased from 1316% (control) to ~ 200%. Surface roughness of the films depended on the genipin concentrations used, the surface of composite films were smooth at concentrations of 0~1.0%, with low Rq and Ra. In contrast, irregular projections were clearly visualized on the surface of the films crosslinked by 2.0% genipin. In brief, mild genipin crosslink facilitated to form ordered three-dimensional network structure in film matrix while agglomerate structure was observed in the case of high genipin concentrations (2.0%). Furthermore, the presence of genipin, especially at high concentrations may weaken the interaction between gelatin molecules, impairing the water vapor barrier capability of the films.
