Introduction

Kombucha leather, a dried and compressed pellicle resulting from fermentation, is an eco-friendly substitute for leather and synthetic materials. Its versatility, including flexibility and strength makes it suitable for various applications. Our research focused on enhancing kombucha leather as commercial bandages by incorporating antimicrobial properties and improving adhesion. We tested methods such as treating the leather with betel leaf extract for antimicrobial qualities and using a sodium alginate bio adhesive for better adhesion. Kombucha leather's key advantage lies in its inherent biodegradability, setting it apart from traditional materials. Over five weeks, we monitored its biodegradation under controlled conditions. Results showed that kombucha leather biodegraded faster than conventional plastic-based bandages, even with modifications. By optimizing its performance and harnessing its unique properties, kombucha leather offers an environmentally friendly alternative for various industries. In conclusion, kombucha leather's remarkable qualities make it a sustainable substitute for leather and synthetic materials. Its flexibility, strength, and water resistance make it ideal for diverse applications. Incorporating antimicrobial properties and improved adhesion further enhances its usability as commercial bandages. With its biodegradability, kombucha leather contributes to a more sustainable future, reducing the ecological impact of different industries.

Analysis

The utilization of kombucha pellicle as a refined leather substrate unveils its inherent attributes, rendering it an exceptionally promising candidate for commercial bandages. Its remarkable thinness and remarkable flexibility endow it with the capacity to conform flawlessly to the contours of the skin. Moreover, it can be deftly tailored into various shapes and sizes to suit the specific requirements of diverse wounds. Augmenting its adhesive properties as a commercial bandage, a judicious blend of 10% Sodium alginate serves as an exemplary adhesive agent for the kombucha leather. This adhesive compound can be further enhanced by integrating it with the extract of the betel leaf, thereby fortifying the kombucha leather's antimicrobial efficacy. Furthermore, it exhibits a unique ability to adhere seamlessly to human skin and adheres firmly to oil paper, while remarkably retaining its adhesive properties upon removal. Intriguingly, our experiments have shown that the treatment of kombucha leather with sodium alginate and betel leaf extract does not impede its biodegradability over a span of five weeks. Impressively, within the initial week, the kombucha leather samples experienced a substantial weight reduction averaging at 81%. These findings corroborate the tremendous potential of kombucha leather as a commercially viable bandage material, endowed with enhanced wound healing properties, while concurrently addressing the pressing issue of plastic pollution, which is partially attributed to conventional bandages.

Conclusion and Future Work

Although the kombucha leather samples have undergone rigorous sanitation measures such as autoclaving and UV treatment, I believe that additional steps can be taken to further ensure their safety and suitability for wound healing applications.

Expanding upon our knowledge of manipulating kombucha pellicle into kombucha leather and utilizing sodium alginate for its adhesive properties, an intriguing avenue for exploration lies in my colleague's study on infusing betel leaves and collagen into the biofilm for enhanced wound healing. This innovative approach holds the potential to yield a multifaceted solution, encompassing not only the physical properties and functionality of a commercial bandage but also harnessing the potential benefits that betel leaves and collagen bring to the table in terms of wound healing efficacy.

Furthermore, future endeavors could focus on the development of a purpose-designed commercial packaging for the kombucha leather bandage product. By implementing appropriate packaging measures, the longevity of the product can be extended, ensuring its cleanliness, hygiene, and overall appeal to potential users.

In pursuit of elevating the aesthetic allure of kombucha leather, additional endeavors can be undertaken to refine its coloration and fragrance. Empirical investigations have revealed that the transformation of a thinner kombucha pellicle into leather yields a paler hue akin to the complexion of human skin. Furthermore, diligent application of various washing techniques, including sodium bicarbonate treatment, yields a perceptible diminishment in its inherent scent. By judiciously establishing and adhering to controlled parameters, the attainment of a more uniform and commercially viable product is within reach.

Shana Koswara

PUBLICATION AND PRESENTATION

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