Green Cu particles for functional and biodegradable food packaging solutions.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Nanoparticle synthesis often requires inert atmospheres and can lead to cytotoxicity.
• Developing safe, scalable, and environmentally friendly synthesis methods for metal nanoparticles is crucial.
• Chitosan-based films are promising for food packaging due to their biodegradability and film-forming properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a green and safe synthesis for copper nanoparticles (Cu@PVP).
• To embed synthesized copper particles into chitosan films for food packaging.
• To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of the developed chitosan-copper films against food spoilage fungi.

Main Methods:

• Green synthesis of copper particles using poly(n-vinyl)pyrrolidone (PVP) as a stabilizer, avoiding inert atmospheres.
• Tuning synthetic parameters (PVP concentration, reductant concentration, reaction time) to control particle size (>200 nm) and stability.
• Characterization of copper particles using spectroscopic and morphological techniques.
• Embedding Cu@PVP colloids into chitosan (CS) films via solvent evaporation.
• Characterization of chitosan films, including viscoelastic properties, water uptake, and copper ion release.
• Antimicrobial testing against model fungi responsible for agrifood spoilage.

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized green copper particles (>200 nm) stabilized by PVP, ensuring safety and preventing nano-cytotoxicity.
• Achieved stable colloidal dispersions of copper particles by optimizing synthesis parameters.
• Developed self-standing chitosan films incorporating copper particles with characterized physical and chemical properties.
• Demonstrated significant antimicrobial efficacy of the chitosan-copper films against tested fungal strains.

Conclusions:

• The developed green synthesis approach provides a safe and scalable method for producing larger copper particles.
• Chitosan films embedded with copper particles exhibit promising antimicrobial activity, suitable for enhancing food packaging applications.
• This research offers a sustainable solution for active food packaging, reducing spoilage and extending shelf life.