Novel natural composite films as packaging materials with enhanced properties

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• The demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging materials is increasing.
• Conventional packaging often relies on non-biodegradable plastics, posing environmental challenges.
• Natural polymers offer a promising alternative for developing biodegradable packaging solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel natural composite films using carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), gelatin, and shellac.
• To characterize the physical, mechanical, thermal, and antimicrobial properties of these composite films.
• To evaluate their potential as sustainable packaging materials.

Main Methods:

• Composite films were prepared via solution casting using glycerol as a plasticizer.
• Characterization involved Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), air permeability, tensile strength, burst strength, Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Water Vapor Permeability (WVP) tests.
• Antimicrobial activity was assessed against E. coli, B. mycoides, and C. albicans.

Main Results:

• The composite films exhibited flexibility, good tensile and burst strength, homogeneity, transparency, and elongation properties.
• Reduced porosity and air permeability were observed.
• The gelatin/CMC (50/50%) composite film demonstrated superior thermal stability, enduring up to 800°C.
• Effective antimicrobial activity against tested microorganisms was confirmed.

Conclusions:

• Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), gelatin, and shellac can be effectively combined to create promising natural composite films.
• These films possess desirable properties for packaging applications, including enhanced thermal stability and antimicrobial activity.
• The developed cellulosic composite materials represent a viable pathway towards environmentally friendly, low-cost, and sustainable packaging solutions.