Functional Nanocellulose, Alginate and Chitosan Nanocomposites Designed as Active Film Packaging Materials

• DOI: 10.3390/polym13152523
• Publication Date: 2021-08-02T01:44:32Z
• Authors: Gregor Lavrič; Ana Oberlintner; Inese Filipova; Uroš Novak; Blaž Likozar; Urška Vrabič-Brod...
• Keywords: Nanocellulose; Biopolymer; Oxygen permeability; Active packaging

The aim of the study was to characterize and compare films made cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), nano-fibrils (CNF), bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) in combination with chitosan alginate terms applicability for potential food packaging applications. In total, 25 different formulations were evaluated, seven biopolymer best mechanical performance (tensile strength, strain)—alginate, 5% CNC, chitosan, 3% BNC without glycerol, CNF glycerol—were selected investigated regarding morphology (SEM), density, contact angle, surface energy, water absorption, oxygen barrier properties. Studies revealed that polysaccharide-based added CNC are most suitable purposes, better dispersing than observed. Results showed an increase hydrophobicity (increase angle reduced moisture absorption) addition had highest 108 ± 2, 15% lower absorption compared pure chitosan. Overall, ability additives preserve structure function materials a humid environment convincingly demonstrated. Barrier properties improved by combining biopolymers, vapor transmission rate (WVTR) 15–45% permeability (OTR) up 45% adding single formulations. It concluded good barrier, is comparable PLA, properties, would be alternative conventional plastic used ready-to-eat foods short storage time.