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Biocompatible, Biodegradable, and Antimicrobial Food Packaging Film from Polylactic Acid and Biogenic Vaterite CaCO3-Ag Hybrid

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Developing biocompatible and biodegradable materials for food packaging is crucial for addressing environmental concerns and ensuring food safety. In this study, we present a novel food packaging film composed of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and biogenic vaterite CaCO3-Ag hybrid microspheres. A non-solution technique was employed to prepare these films, ensuring the sustainability and simplicity of the production process. X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy analyses confirmed the stability and compatibility of the vaterite CaCO3-Ag microspheres within the PLA matrix. Cytotoxicity tests using human dermal fibroblast cells demonstrated complete biocompatibility of the films, even at high concentrations. Antimicrobial efficacy was assessed through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing, which demonstrated that PLA film containing 7 wt% vaterite CaCO3-Ag hybrids effectively inhibited both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria at concentrations as low as ≤0.067 g/mL. Mechanical testing showed that the modulus and strength of PLA film increased significantly with the embedding of 5 wt% of vaterite CaCO3-Ag hybrid, reaching a maximum of 5.63 ± 1.51 GPa and 48.07 ± 13.81 MPa, respectively. Thermal analysis indicated improved thermal stability with the addition of the microspheres. Synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy confirmed the stability of the vaterite structure and the presence of both Ag0 and Ag+ species after embedding in PLA matrix. The composite films exhibited improved oxygen and water vapor barrier properties, making them suitable for packaging applications. These findings highlight the potential of PLA-vaterite CaCO3-Ag hybrid films as sustainable and effective food packaging materials.

Source: Polymers

DOI: 10.3390/polym17101345

Authors: Mohammad Hossein Azarian, Kitti Yuwawech, Waraporn Tanthanuch, Tiraporn Junyusen, Jatuphorn Wootthikanokkhan, Wimonlak Sutapun

Institutions: Suranaree University of Technology, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Synchrotron Light Research Institute

Language: English

Topic: Nanocomposite Films for Food Packaging

Subfield: Biomaterials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258