Nanostructured biopolymer blends obtained by the extrusion method: development, characterization and application

Abstract

The environmental problem caused by packaging wastes made from non-renewable, synthetic base and non-biodegradable sources led to significant increase in research on the use of renewable and biodegradable materials, such as films based on biopolymers. However, such films have limitations in their physical-chemical properties due to their sensitivity to moisture, weak barrier properties and low mechanical performances. Among the alternatives envisaged to improve the properties of these materials, the addition of nanoparticles and nano-fibers to biopolymer blends is a promising route. Thus, the aim of this project is to develop an active packaging film by extrusion technique, based on starch/chitosan blends as matrix with sodium montmorillonite and bamboo nanofibers as nano fillers, and cinnamaldehyde as antimicrobial agent. To reach this goal, the effects of different biopolymers proportions, aroma compound amounts and nanoparticles contents will be studied in combination with extrusion processing parameters. The ultimate objective will be to implement the production of this new biodegradable packaging at pilot-plant scale. The extruded blends will be characterized concerning morphology, crystallinity; physic, barrier, thermal and mechanical properties; in addition, the effectiveness of the antimicrobial agent will be verified. (AU)