The alginate/k-carrageenan ratio's influence on the properties of the cross-linked composite films

The purpose of this work was to prepare an alginate/k-carrageenan composite film cross-linked with CaCl2 that could be used in biomedical applications. The influence of the alginate/carrageenan ratio on the composite films properties was studied in order to establish the optimal composition of the films. Several characterization methods such as: FTIR, XRD, TG/DTG, SEM were used, and the mechanical properties and the swelling behaviour of the obtained composite films were studied.

► We used different ratios of alginate and k-carrageenan to obtain composite films.
► The composite films were cross-linked in two stages with CaCl2.
► The structures of the composite films were analysed by FTIR, XRD, DTG, TG and SEM.
► Cross-linked composite films show mechanical and swelling properties of hydrogels.
► The 1/3 alginate/k-carrageenan films are suitable for drug delivery applications.