The synergistic effect of nanocellulose and nanocapsules into poly(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate) films for active packaging

• Published in: Food packaging and shelf life 2023-03, Vol.35, p.100996, Article 100996
• Main Authors: Ferreira, Rafaela R., Souza, Alana G., Barbosa, Rennan F.S., Marciano, Jéssica S., Marques, Fernanda A.S., Mitra, Sushanta K., Rosa, Derval S.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Chitosan nanocapsules; Cinnamon essential oil; Ho wood essential oil; Nanocellulose
• ISSN: 2214-2894; 2214-2894
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fpsl.2022.100996

The pandemic scenario has impacted the consumption pattern, increasing the use of single-use materials. This work presents the development of active films for application in food packaging products. Poly(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate) (PBAT) films, reinforced with nanocellulose (2 % by weight) and chitosan nanocapsules containing essential oils (EO), were developed using two different EO and different capsules content (1 %, 3 %, and 5 % by weight). The films were investigated by thermal analysis (TGA), mechanical properties, X-Ray diffraction (XRD), water vapor permeability (WVP), contact angle, oil release, and antimicrobial tests. The films presented excellent thermal stability and showed increased mechanical properties compared with pristine films. The film's crystallinity corroborated these results, indicating that the fibers and capsules promoted a nucleating effect during film formation. The WVP and contact angle results indicated that EO's hydrophobicity impacted the film's surface properties. The antimicrobial activity of the films was evaluated against Escherichia coli (E. coli), and it was observed inhibition of bacterial growth for all films containing EO. These results show a promising application for extending food products' shelf life in new formulations and using environmentally friendly materials. •Active PBAT films were developed.•Films showed increased stiffness with nanofillers addition.•The slow release observed indicates a suitability for packaging applications.•The active properties were observed after 3 months of storage.•CN and EO showed a synergic antimicrobial effect against E. coli.