Self-healing, antibacterial, and dual cross-linked multilayer films for microcapsule-based controllable drug release applications

Abstract Expanding the lifespan of 2d materials with self-healing properties is highly sought for controllable drug release applications. Herein, we present a layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technique to develop dual cross-linked films based on host-guest and hydrogen bonding interactions. The multilayer film consisted of poly (ethylenimine)-beta-cyclodextrin (PEI-βCD), ferrocene-modified poly (acrylic acid) (PAA-Fc), and microcapsules were prepared. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, Rhodamine B (RB) and chloramphenicol were loaded in microcapsules that were embedded in the (PEI-βCD/PAA-Fc)*15 film, indicating that microcapsules can serve as functional carriers and endow the film with the desired multifunctionality, such as possessing both the controllable release of the constituents and antibacterial properties. Moreover, the film also exhibited excellent self-healing property due to the reversible nature of host-guest or hydrogen bonding interactions. The proof-of-concept demonstration of the microcapsule-(PEI-βCD/PAA-Fc)*15 film as a self-healing, and antibacterial material with sustained drug release can be applied to biomedical engineering and medicinal chemistry.