Chitosan composites with beeswax and olive oil nano-microcapsules physicochemical characterization and antibacterial activity against skin microbiota

Polysaccharide-based composites, such as those containing chitosan, offer significant potential due to their biodegradability, non-toxicity and membrane-forming properties. Chitosan, due to its functional groups, is ideal for nano-/microcapsule formation. Encapsulation protects bioactive components from environ-mental stress, improves physicochemical properties and enhances biological and antimicrobial activity. This research has developed a surfactant-free method to produce beeswax and olive oil nano-/microcapsules stabilized solely within a chitosan matrix without synthetic stabilisers or additional surfactants. The formation of gels and films containing these nano/micro capsules was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Incorporation of the nano/micro capsules into the matrix reduced the mechanical properties compared to the control sample, but significantly improved the hydrophobicity and UV barrier properties. Microbiological tests revealed mild antibacterial properties, highlighting the potential of the composites for applications in cosmetics, such as emulsions and creams, and in food technology, as coatings and packaging materials. The encapsulation process enables the straightforward integration of bioactive ingredients, thus expanding the potential applications.