Improving gelatin-based emulsion films with cold plasma using different gases.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Gelatin-based emulsion films (GEFs) are explored for packaging.
• Surface properties and performance of GEFs require optimization for wider applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the impact of cold plasma treatment on GEFs.
• Evaluate the effects of various gases (O2, N2, air, Ar, EtOH-Ar) on GEF properties.
• Determine the potential of cold plasma for enhancing GEFs for the packaging industry.

Main Methods:

• Cold plasma treatment applied to GEFs using different gases.
• Analysis of surface hydrophilicity (contact angle), morphology (AFM), water vapor permeability (WVP), mechanical properties, thermal properties, and antifungal activity.
• Measurement of oxygen permeability.

Main Results:

• Cold plasma treatment increased surface hydrophilicity and decreased contact angle.
• Argon plasma significantly increased surface roughness.
• WVP was not negatively affected by plasma treatment.
• Oxygen permeability decreased significantly, with oxygen gas yielding the lowest value.
• Antimicrobial activity was observed, particularly with air and nitrogen plasma.
• Plasma treatment induced etching effects and reduced surface moisture.

Conclusions:

• Cold plasma is effective for modifying GEF surfaces.
• Treatment improves GEFs' performance properties, especially oxygen barrier and antimicrobial activity.
• Enhanced GEFs show potential for advanced packaging applications.