Development of Chitosan/TiO₂ Nanocomposite Films Using Banana Flower Spathe Extract for Tissue-regeneration Applications

Abstract

Banana flower spathe extract-mediated titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) were incorporated into chitosan to fabricate functional nanocomposite films for tissue-engineering applications. TiO₂ NPs were produced from titanium (IV) isopropoxide (TTIP), and their formation was verified using UV–visible spectroscopy. Chitosan/TiO₂ films containing 5, 10, and 20 mL of nanoparticle suspension were prepared through solution casting. Structural, chemical, and morphological characteristics were investigated using XRD, FTIR, and SEM, respectively. These analyses supported the successful incorporation of TiO₂ and indicated comparatively uniform nanoparticle dispersion in the 10 mL formulation. The films were further examined for tensile performance, antibacterial potential, antioxidant activity, swelling, biodegradation, and titanium release. The formulation containing 10 mL of TiO₂ suspension exhibited the most favourable performance, with tensile strength of 48.9 MPa and electrical conductivity of 6.80×10−7 S cm⁻¹. It demonstrated 4.7% cumulative titanium release after 12 h and 45.08 % antioxidant activity. Controlled swelling confirmed structural stability under hydrated conditions, while gradual biodegradation supported temporary biomedical use. The combined properties justify further cytocompatibility, nanoparticle-migration, and in vivo evaluation of the optimized film for potential tissue-support and wound-contact applications.