In this study, double cross-linked
acrylic acid/bagasse cellulose
(AA/BC) porous hydrogels were first prepared using cold plasma (CP)
technology instead of chemical initiators. The structure and properties
of porous hydrogels, as well as the controlled release and bacteriostatic
application as functional carriers, were investigated. Results showed
that a novel double cross-linked hydrogel had been successfully synthesized
by utilizing •OH and H+ produced during
plasma discharge. The acrylic acid (AA) monomers were successfully
grafted onto the main chains of bagasse cellulose (BC), forming a
porous three-dimensional network structure. The AA/BC porous hydrogels
showed excellent swelling levels and intelligent responses. The release
of citral in hydrogel inclusion compounds embedded with citral was
controlled by adjusting the pH, and the slow release period was about
2 days. The inclusion compounds presented strong bacteriostatic effects
against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, extending the shelf life of
fruits for about 4 days. Therefore, it can be concluded that CP technology
is considered to be an efficient and environmental-friendly initiation
technology for preparing hydrogels. The potential application of hydrogel
inclusion compounds in the food field is expanded.