Fabrication of Antimicrobial Poly(propylene carbonate) Film by Plasma Surface Modification

Plasma coating was used as a green process for immobilization of thymol, a natural antimicrobial compound, on the surface of poly(propylene carbonate) (PPC). PPC is a partially renewable polymer that is synthesized from CO2 and degrades into benign products including water and CO2 and has superior properties for broad ranges of applications. The results of FTIR and water contact angle analyses demonstrated that plasma treatment was efficient for functionalization of PPC and immobilizing thymol. Plasma treatment of the PPC surface reduced thymol elution in 90% alcohol from 60% to 20% (P < 0.05). Maximum antimicrobial activity was achieved with high intensity plasma for 15 min and 1.25 mg/cm(2) thymol as shown by antibacterial and bioffim formation assays. In aqueous media, the antimicrobial activity of coated PPC was maintained for 7 days, while under dry conditions it was preserved for several months. In conclusion, plasma modification was an efficient technique for the fabrication of antimicrobial PPC and it will broaden the application of this polymer for fabrication of biomedical devices and food packaging to decrease the risk of microbial contamination and prolong their shelf life.