Effect of Sulfamerazine on Structural Characteristics of Sodium Alginate Biopolymeric Films

Abstract

The present study was intended to describe and understand the mechanical, structural, morphological, and antimicrobial properties of sodium alginate (SA) biopolymeric films doped with sulfamerazine (SMR). Tensile strength (TS), elongation at break (E%), intermolecular interactions, crystallinity, structural integrity, and surface properties were investigated for SMR concentrations of 0.6, 1.2, and 1.8 mg/mL in the film-forming solution. The TS and E% of the various experimental films differed significantly according to the SMR concentration (p < 0.05). However, a slight reduction was observed at the highest SMR concentration (1.8 mg/mL). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction patterns revealed the reaction of the functional groups and conformational changes caused by the SMR and Ca2+ ions in the film matrix. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy image analysis illustrated the cross-sectional microstructure and surface roughness of the experimental films. Overall, the doping of SMR into the SA polymer matrix was proven to have a significant effect on the morphological, structural, and mechanical properties of the resulting films.