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Poly(l-lactic acid)/alkali lignin composites: properties, biocompatibility, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial behavior

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Abstract

In this study, poly(L-lactic acid) (PLA)/low molar mass alkali lignin (aL) (1%, 5% and 10% w/w) composites were prepared primarily for a comprehensive understanding of the effect of aL on their antimicrobial properties, biocompatibility and cytotoxic behavior. The properties were evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry and X-ray diffraction. The mechanical, water vapor barrier properties and photodegradability were analyzed as well. The results showed a significant inhibiting effect of aL on the crystallization behavior of PLA, increased water barrier properties (up to 73%) and photodegradability. PLA/aL composites showed a tenfold reduction in Gram-positive bacteria viability, very good cellular response and very low cytotoxicity levels, thus validating these materials as non-cytotoxic and with high potential to be used as food packaging.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Rudjer Boskovic 16, 1000, Skopje, North Macedonia

    A. Bužarovska & J. Blazevska-Gilev

  2. POLYMAT, Joxe Mari Korta Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Avda. Tolosa 72, 20018, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain

    B. T. Pérez-Martnez

  3. Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095, Bucharest, Romania

    L. R. Balahura, S. Dinescu & M. Costache

  4. Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096, Bucharest, Romania

    L. R. Balahura

  5. The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, 050095, Bucharest, Romania

    G. Gradisteanu Pircalabioru, S. Dinescu & M. Costache

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  1. A. Bužarovska
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  2. J. Blazevska-Gilev
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Bužarovska, A., Blazevska-Gilev, J., Pérez-Martnez, B.T. et al. Poly(l-lactic acid)/alkali lignin composites: properties, biocompatibility, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial behavior. J Mater Sci 56, 13785–13800 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10853-021-06185-6

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