The preparation, physicochemical characterization and antibacterial activity of Pectin/Zinc Alginate composite film

Pectin and sodium alginate (SA) were mixed to form composite films using the casting method. Antibacterial packaging films (pectin/ZA) were obtained by a simple ion exchange method with a pectin/SA blend film. The effect of Zn²⁺ on the pectin/SA blend in terms of structural, morphological, thermal, physical, and mechanical properties, as well as antibacterial activity, was investigated in detail. The FT-IR, XRD, and XPS results indicated that Zn²⁺ was successfully introduced into the pectin/SA blend film. Additionally, SEM images exhibited the uniform incorporation of Zn²⁺ into the pectin/SA blend film. Moreover, the blend film of pectin and alginate improved its thermal properties, mechanical properties, and water resistance compared to the pure pectin film. Furthermore, the pectin/ZA blend film had significant antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and E. coli, revealing its potential application in food packaging.