Cellulosic crystallinity and antimicrobial artistry of cactus cilia

The present research utilizes the mass of fine cilia yielded by cactus protoderm. Obtained cilia is characterized morphologically, chemically, thermally, and for antimicrobial activity. Plant based cellulosic wound dressing material expedite tissue generation, hydration, and bactericidal activity. Chemical characterization of cactus cilia reveals a highly absorbent cellulose I structure with crystallinity percentage of 65.02%. Infrared spectroscopy shows aromatic rings in cellulose polysaccharides with carbon (88.37%), oxygen (6.67%), nitrogen (3.67%), and sodium (1.27%). Morphology displayed a very fine (21 to 65 μ m), coiled, and uncinate fiber. Significant number of amino acids, amides, and their derivatives exhibit cactus cilia is a plant biomass. Cactus cilia + ampicillin derivative inhibited gram-negative bacterial growth, thus making it a potential material for general use in meditech applications.