ABSTRACT
@#Introduction: Staphylococcus aureus is the most common bacteria infecting chronic wounds. Wound dressing are available in various physical forms including hydrogels. However, hydrogels are expensive and contain synthetic materials, so natural materials such as liquid smoke infusing to the hydrogels will be improve its composition and needed as antibacterial wound dressing. This study analysed the difference in antibacterial activity between a hydrogel base and hydrogel membranes infused with liquid smoke to inhibit the growth of S. aureus. Methods: This study was a true laboratory experiment with a post-test only control group design. Twenty-four samples were divided into four concentration groups of 0%, 8%, 12% and 16%. The parallel streak method (AATCC 147-2004) was used for antibacterial testing. Data were analysed using Kruskall-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. Results: The average clear zone widths of inhibition of S. aureus at 0%, 8%, 12% and 16% were 0.013 mm, 0.416 mm, 1.191 mm and 1.625 mm respectively. The Mann-Whitney test indicated significant difference in the width of the inhibition zone between 0% and 12% and 16%, and between 8% and 16% (p<0.05). The hydrogel membrane infused with liquid smoke at a concentration of 12% was the lowest concentration that inhibited S. aureus. Conclusion: Hydrogel membranes infused with liquid smoke had antimicrobial properties against growth inhibition of S. aureus.