Carrageenan-based antimicrobial composite film for green packaging: Fabrication and property characterization

The development of green packaging is of great significance in response to the increasing demand for environmental sustainability. In this study, a composite packaging film was prepared using carrageenan and polyvinyl alcohol as the base materials, with cinnamaldehyde incorporated as a natural active ingredient. The cinnamaldehyde was successfully integrated into the carrageenan/polyvinyl alcohol composite network, endowing the film with antibacterial properties. Results indicate that the composite film possesses satisfactory mechanical properties, excellent UV-blocking performance (UV transmittance ≤37.6 %), high transparency (>80 %), and outstanding oxygen barrier properties (exhibiting an oxygen transmission rate as low as 1.696 cm³/m²·24h·0.1 MPa), meeting the requirements for fundamental application scenarios. Furthermore, the water solubility of the film allows it to be decomposed and disposed of via simple water treatment after use. This characteristic offers a promising strategy for developing green alternatives to traditional petroleum-based packaging materials, highlighting its potential for reducing white pollution and promoting the sustainable development of the packaging industry.