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Biopolymer-based films; Montmorillonite nanoclay chitosan-xanthan gum blend; Barrier properties; Biodegradability; Sustainable food packaging

Introduction

The increasing environmental concerns associated with the excessive use of non-degradable, petroleum-based plastics especially in food packaging have created a pressing need for sustainable alternatives. These conventional plastics contribute significantly to global pollution and waste management problems. In response, biopolymer-based packaging materials have gained attention due to their biodegradability, renewability, and lower environmental footprint. However, many biopolymers on their own lack the necessary mechanical strength and barrier properties required for effective food packaging [1]. To overcome these limitations, the incorporation of nanomaterials such as montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclay has emerged as a promising strategy. MMT offers advantages like high surface area and excellent reinforcing capabilities, which can significantly enhance the performance of biopolymer films. In this study, two different chitosan-based biopolymer blends chitosan–xanthan gum and chitosan vanillin were used as film matrices [2]. MMT nanoclay was added to these blends to develop bio-nanocomposite films with improved functionality. The research aims to explore the potential of these materials as sustainable, degradable alternatives for next-generation food packaging applications.

Discussion

The study titled "Advancing Sustainability: A Novel Biopolymer-Based Degradable Nanoclay Composite Film for Next-Generation Packaging" presents an in-depth analysis of bio-nanocomposite films developed by incorporating montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclay into chitosan-based blends. The research focuses on optimizing the mechanical, barrier, and biodegradability properties of these films for sustainable food packaging applications. Film Formation and Optimization: The solution casting method was employed to fabricate the films, utilizing chitosan as the primary matrix blended with xanthan gum or vanillin. Incorporating 0.5% xanthan gum or 1% vanillin resulted in films with improved mechanical properties [3-5]. Further addition of MMT nanoclay (up to 3%) enhanced tensile strength and water resistance without compromising film flexibility. Mechanical Properties the tensile strength of the chitosan–vanillin blend film with 3% MMT nanoclay (CVM3) exhibited a remarkable 6.64-fold increase compared to pure chitosan film. This enhancement is attributed to the uniform dispersion of MMT nanoclay within the biopolymer matrix, leading to improved interfacial interactions and reinforcement [6]. Barrier Properties films incorporating MMT nanoclay demonstrated superior barrier properties against water vapor and oxygen transmission. CVM3, for instance, showed a 56.16% improvement in water vapor barrier performance compared to pure chitosan film, making it a suitable candidate for preserving moisture-sensitive food items [7-9]. UV Protection: The inclusion of MMT nanoclay enhanced the UV-blocking capacity of the films. CVM3 exhibited increased absorption across the UV spectrum, offering potential protection for UV-sensitive food products. Biodegradability: The films demonstrated promising biodegradability, with CVM3 showing a 25% weight loss within the first month under soil burial conditions [10]. This characteristic underscores the environmental friendliness of the developed materials.

Conclusion

The study successfully developed chitosan-based nanocomposite films reinforced with MMT nanoclay, achieving significant improvements in mechanical strength, barrier properties, UV protection, and biodegradability. Among the formulations, CVM3 (chitosan–vanillin blend with 3% MMT nanoclay) emerged as the most promising candidate for sustainable food packaging applications. These advancements align with the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions that do not compromise on performance.

References

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