Chitosan/Copaiba oleoresin films for would dressing application

Biopolymeric films can be used as dressings for the treatment of skin burns and other chronic wounds. The healing properties of these films may be enhanced by the addition of Copaiba oil (Copaifera L.) which properties have already been well-described. The aim of this study was to evaluate the addition of Copaiba oil in chitosan films prepared by casting solvent evaporation technique using chitosan solution (2% or 1% wt/wt) and Copaiba oil (0.1 or 1.0% wt/wt) at different concentrations. Films were characterized by color analysis, scanning electron microscopy, mechanical properties, thermal analysis, and fluid handling capacity. The developed films demonstrated potential for wound dressing, translated by the fluid handling capacity similar to that of commercial dressings. While no surfactant was present in the formulation, the droplets of Copaiba oil were well-dispersed and homogeneously distributed in the chitosan matrix even after drying. The thermal analysis translated the occurrence of interactions between the oil and chitosan.