Investigation of curcumin release from chitosan/cellulose micro crystals (CMC) antimicrobial films.

Following the novel 'vapor induced phase inversion' (VIPI) method, we have prepared curcumin loaded chitosan/cellulose micro crystals composite films and characterized them by thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The equilibrium moisture absorption behavior of these films was investigated under different relative humidity (RH) environments and the data obtained was interpreted by the GAB isotherm model successfully. The films were also studied for their curcumin release behavior in the physiological fluid (PF) at 37 °C and the kinetic data obtained was best interpreted by Higuchi model. Finally, the films showed fair antimicrobial action against bacteria and fungi.