The preparation of
chitosan-coated
alginate fibers by a wet spin process is presented and the characterization of the antibacterial activities of these fibers is discussed. Preformed
calcium alginate fibers were passed in
chitosan acetate solutions. The coagulation method of the coating consisted in the immersion of fibers in a bath of
calcium dihydroxide
solution (0.1 M). The antibacterial evaluation was achieved by a CFU (Colony-Forming Units) counting method after 6 h of incubation at 37 °C. The incorporation of
chitosan on
calcium alginate fibers brings antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli and various Staphylococcus aureus strains namely MSSA (
Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus), CA-MRSA (Community Associated Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and HA-MRSA (Healthcare Associated Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) which make these
chitosan-coated fibers potential candidates for
wound dressing materials. Developing a
wound dressing with the haemostatic and healing properties of
alginate combined with antibacterial properties of
chitosan is envisioned for fighting against the
infections and more particularly nosocomial diseases.