Microbe Killer Polymeric Films Made by Melt-Compounding and Compression of Peptide Assemblies and Polyethylene

Abstract

This paper presents, for the first time, compression molding of peptide assemblies with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) for the robust production of antimicrobial polymeric films. The peptide self-assembles in an aqueous medium into spherical structures with antimicrobial properties. After lyophilization, used to yield a fine powder, these particles were melt-compounded at 160°C with LDPE, followed by compression molding to produce 100 µm thick polymeric films. These films showed a significant reduction in the number of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These innovative active polymeric films can potentially be applied for medical device wrapping, food packaging, and agriculture applications where crop protection is needed.