Thin-Film Coated Plastic Wrap for Food Packaging

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Food Science
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• Polymethylpentene (PMP) is a common food packaging material.
• Improving the antimicrobial properties and barrier capabilities of PMP is crucial for extending food shelf life.
• Silicon-based thin films offer potential for enhanced packaging performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the antimicrobial properties and food packaging capabilities of PMP coated with stacked silicon oxide (SiO_x) and organic silicon (SiC_xH_y) layers.
• To determine the optimal number of stacked layers for effective food packaging.
• To evaluate the impact of the coatings on food shelf life.

Main Methods:

• Deposition of stacked SiO_x/SiC_xH_y thin films on PMP using inductively coupled plasma chemical vapor deposition.
• Characterization of film properties including water vapor transmission rate and contact angle.
• Assessment of antimicrobial activity and microbe adhesion.
• Food shelf life testing under controlled conditions (28 °C and 80% humidity).

Main Results:

• The maximum stable stacked pair number for SiO_x/SiC_xH_y on PMP was determined to be three pairs.
• The three-pair coating exhibited a low water vapor transmission rate (0.57 g/m²/day) and a high water contact angle (102°).
• The coated PMP demonstrated no microbe adhesion and significant antibacterial properties within 24 hours.
• Food shelf life was extended to 120 hours at 28 °C and 80% humidity.

Conclusions:

• Stacked silicon-based thin films on PMP provide effective antibacterial properties and enhance barrier performance.
• The developed coating technology shows promise for creating advanced antibacterial food packaging.
• This approach can significantly extend the shelf life of food products, reducing waste.