Fuente: Journal of applied polymer Lugar: RESEARCH ARTICLE A cross-linked PCL/PEG/BP fiber membrane is prepared. BP and PEG formed chemical and physical cross-links, enabling shape memory functionality. Additionally, BP imparts antibacterial properties to the membrane. The membrane reduces thermal stress on strawberries and exhibits visible shape changes under elevated temperature, suggesting a dual functional smart packaging material for commodity preservation and temperature indicator.

ABSTRACT
This study presents the development of electrospun polycaprolactone/polyethylene glycol/benzophenone (PCL/PEG/BP) fiber membranes exhibiting dual functionality: shape-memory performance and antibacterial activity for smart packaging applications. By employing BP and PEG to establish chemical and physical cross-linked networks, the morphology, crystallinity, and thermal properties of the membranes were strategically modulated to enhance shape-memory performance. The influence of PEG and BP content was systematically evaluated, revealing optimal performance in the membrane containing 5 wt% PEG and 5 wt% BP, which achieved a shape fixity of 98.21% ± 0.39% and a recovery ratio of 90.34% ± 0.10% at 56°C. The UV-cross-linked membranes exhibited a distinct “fishing net-like” morphology characterized by inter-fiber adhesion. Furthermore, antibacterial assays demonstrated total inhibition of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and significant suppression of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), primarily attributed to the BP component. Functionally, the membrane mitigated strawberry wilting under thermal stress at 50°C for 7 h compared with uncoated controls, and their visible shape changes served as a temperature indicator. These findings suggest the potential of the PCL/PEG/BP membrane for adaptive and responsive packaging technologies.