Thermally Induced Shape‐Memory Poly(ε‐Caprolactone)/poly(ethylene glycol)/benzophenone Fiber Membrane as a Dual‐Functional Smart Packaging Material

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.