Title
Preparation of antimicrobial paper sheets using chitosan
Authors
LIDIJA FRAS ZEMLJIC JULIJA VOLMAJER VALH and TATJANA KREŽE

Received April 20, 2015
Published Volume 51 Issue 1-2 January-February
Keywords chitosan, adsorption, paper pulp, paper sheets, hydrophilicity, antimicrobial activity

Abstract
The purpose of this study was the antimicrobial functionalization of paper pulp with natural biopolymer chitosan. Laboratory paper sheets were prepared for this purpose from paper pulp with incorporated chitosan. The prepared paper sheets were analysed regarding amino group content, mechanical properties and hydrophilicity. All of these parameters are important for hygienic applications of paper pulp (wipes, towels, toilet paper, etc.). The antimicrobial efficiency of functionalised pulp was examined regarding Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae), Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli), and fungi (Candida albicans and Candida glabrata). The presence of chitosan in the paper pulp conferred antimicrobial properties to the paper sheets, leading to the inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus, and both fungi: Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. Such antimicrobial activity is extremely important for the application of paper products in the hygiene and medical sectors.