Enhanced Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties of Polybutylene Adipate-Terephthalate/Curcumin Composite Films Using Surface-Modified Cellulose Nanocrystals

• DOI: 10.3390/polym17070830
• Publication Date: 2025-03-21T13:09:07Z
• Authors: Hashimu Juma; Cunshi Zhao; Qingbo Wang; Yunfeng Guo; Xinyan Fan; Wuming Fan; Linlin Zhao; Jiayi Sun; Dong Wang; Yonggui Wang

Polybutylene adipate-terephthalate (PBAT) offers a convincing ecological alternative to the traditional fossil-based plastics due to its biodegradability and robust mechanical properties. The objective of this study is to develop PBAT-based bio-composite films through incorporating functionalized cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and curcumin (CUR). In order to improve the interfacial compatibility with the PBAT matrix and co-doping with CUR, CNC was modified using dodecyl succinic anhydride (DxCNC). In this ternary bio-composite system, CUR functioned as a bio-based antioxidant and antimicrobial agent. The presence of CUR also provides excellent UV-shielding properties, whereas the DxCNC effectively enhances the controlled release of CUR. The synergistic effect between DxCNC and CUR in boosting antimicrobial properties, with the inhibition values for E. coli and S. aureus reached 1.82 log CFU/cm2 and 2.12 log CFU/cm2, respectively. These findings indicate DxCNC/CUR/PBAT ternary composite films as a promising material for eco-friendly packaging products.