What question did this study set out to answer?

The research aims to develop a fiber membrane that combines shape-memory performance with antibacterial properties for packaging purposes.

February 19, 2026

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

Key Points

The research aims to develop a fiber membrane that combines shape-memory performance with antibacterial properties for packaging purposes.
Development of electrospun PCL/PEG/BP fiber membranes.
Systematic evaluation of PEG and BP content for optimal performance.
Characterization of morphology, crystallinity, and thermal properties of membranes.
Conducting antibacterial assays against E. coli and MRSA.
Assessing the membrane's performance in preventing strawberry wilting under heat.
Achieved a shape fixity of 98.21% ± 0.39% and a recovery ratio of 90.34% ± 0.10% at 56°C.
Total inhibition of E. coli and significant suppression of MRSA observed.
Displayed a 'fishing net-like' morphology due to inter-fiber adhesion.
Prevented strawberry wilting under thermal stress for 7 hours at 50°C.
Visible shape changes functioned as a temperature indicator.

Abstract

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.

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