Chitosan and guar gum composite films: Preparation, physical, mechanical and antimicrobial properties

Films were prepared by the casting method using chitosan (CH) and guar gum (GG) in different ratios. The concentration of GG ranged from 0% to 50% (v/v). The optical properties such as transparency, opacity and color were measured. Water vapor transmission rate and oxygen permeability of the films were also investigated. Films were evaluated for mechanical and antibacterial properties. Addition of GG in varied proportions to CH solution led to changes in transparency and opacity of films. The water vapor transmission rate did not change significantly upon addition of GG. Films containing 15% (v/v) GG showed very low oxygen permeability, good tensile and puncture strength. The antimicrobial activity of films containing 15% (v/v) GG was comparable to CH films against Escherichia con and Staphylococcus aureus. Composite films obtained from CH and GG may reduce environmental problems associated with synthetic packaging. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.