Active and smart biodegradable packaging based on starch and natural extracts.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Food Science
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Biodegradable films are crucial for sustainable packaging.
• Natural extracts offer functional properties to bioplastics.
• Cassava starch is a viable biopolymer base.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop active and smart biodegradable films using cassava starch and natural extracts.
• To evaluate the antioxidant capacity and physicochemical properties of these films.
• To assess the impact of green tea and basil extracts on film performance.

Main Methods:

• Films were prepared by casting cassava starch and glycerol with 5wt.% natural extracts (green tea, basil).
• Antioxidant activity was assessed based on phenolic compound content.
• Physicochemical properties including color change, thermal stability, degradation, and water vapor permeability were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Films containing phenolic compounds showed significant antioxidant activity, especially with green tea extract.
• Films exhibited color changes in acidic and basic media; basil extract showed notable pH sensitivity.
• The films demonstrated good thermal stability (up to 240°C) and rapid soil degradation (under two weeks).
• Incorporation of extracts reduced water vapor permeability while maintaining film flexibility.

Conclusions:

• Cassava starch-based films with green tea and basil extracts possess enhanced antioxidant and functional properties.
• These active and smart films offer a sustainable alternative with tunable characteristics.
• The developed films show potential for applications requiring antioxidant activity and controlled degradation.