Natural Bioactive Compounds-Functionalized Rubber Composite for Antimicrobial Medical Glove Applications

This study investigates the incorporation of plant-derived extracts obtained from banana peels and turmeric into natural rubber latex compounds for prospective medical glove applications. The extracts, containing tannin and curcumin, respectively, were incorporated at concentrations of 0, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 wt%, resulting in seven experimental formulations. The effects of these additives on the structural, physical, chemical, surface, and mechanical properties of the resulting rubber films were evaluated. Surface morphology was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while film thickness and solubility were measured to characterize the physical properties. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to identify chemical functional groups, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to examine the crystalline phases. Surface wettability was assessed through contact angle measurements. Mechanical performance was evaluated in terms of tensile stress, tensile strength, and elongation at break. In addition, the antibacterial activity of the films against Staphylococcus aureus was investigated using the zone of inhibition (ZOI) method. The results provide insights into the effects of tannin-containing banana peel extract and curcumin-containing turmeric extract on the properties and antibacterial performance of natural rubber latex films. This study demonstrates the potential of plant-derived extracts as functional additives for natural rubber latex materials intended for prospective medical glove applications. However, further investigations, including broader antimicrobial testing, cytotoxicity assessment, and biocompatibility evaluation, are required before their suitability for medical use can be established.