Process for the Extraction and Application of Antimicrobial Aloe barbadensis Miller (ABM) Stem Fibers in Biomedical Materials

Abstract

The present invention relates to a process for the extraction and characterization of stem fibers from Aloe barbadensis Miller (ABM) plants, intended for use in biomedical applications. The method involves cultivating ABM plants under optimized growth management practices, including the periodic application of organic and inorganic fertilizers and removal of lower leaves to promote stem growth. After a growth period of five months, the stems are harvested and cleaned, followed by the separation of stem fibers using a modified water retting process. The retting process involves submerging the stems in water for a period of 3 to 5 weeks, during which the water is regularly changed to facilitate the breakdown of plant tissues and enhance fiber separation. The extracted fibers are dried under controlled environmental conditions. The stem fibers exhibit notable antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, making them suitable for integration into wound healing and other medical applications. Additionally, the fibers are characterized by a high degree of crystallinity, a smooth surface morphology, and specific electronic and elemental properties, as determined by UV-visible spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction analysis. This invention provides an efficient method for producing highquality ABM stem fibers with potential for use in healthcare products.