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Guar gum-based films incorporated with a synthetic nanoclay: Physicochemical properties and food packaging applications

  • 0Department of Chemical and Food Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules +

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March 13, 2025

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March 13, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Guar gum (GG) films with Laponite (Lap) show potential for sustainable packaging. These biopolymer films enhanced mechanical strength and UV protection, and preserved strawberry quality in modified atmosphere packaging.

Area Of Science

  • Materials Science
  • Polymer Science
  • Food Science

Background

  • Biopolymeric materials offer sustainable alternatives for packaging.
  • Guar gum (GG) is a renewable, non-toxic, plant-based biopolymer with packaging potential.
  • Laponite (Lap) is a synthetic clay with potential to enhance biopolymer film properties.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To evaluate the properties of guar gum (GG) films incorporated with Laponite (Lap).
  • To assess the efficacy of GG-Lap films as modified atmosphere packaging for ready-to-eat strawberries.

Main Methods

  • GG films with varying Lap concentrations (0-15%) were prepared using the casting method.
  • Films were characterized for morphology, chemical bonds, crystallinity, optical, moisture, solubility, water vapor permeability, and mechanical properties.
  • GG films (0% and 15% Lap) were tested for modified atmosphere packaging of strawberries over 7 days.

Main Results

  • Water solubility of GG films decreased with increasing Lap concentration.
  • Tensile strength increased by 196.9% with 3% Lap, and elastic modulus increased by 266.7% with 5% Lap.
  • Lap improved UV-barrier properties without altering opacity. Both 0% and 15% Lap films maintained strawberry quality, minimizing mass loss and preserving sensory/microbiological attributes.

Conclusions

  • GG-Lap composite films demonstrate tunable mechanical and barrier properties.
  • These films show promise for sustainable food packaging, particularly for extending the shelf life of fresh produce like strawberries.
  • The incorporation of Laponite effectively enhances the performance of guar gum-based packaging materials.

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