Dialdehyde Cellulose Nanocrystals and Proanthocyanidins Reinforced Soy Protein Isolate Films for Blueberry Preservation
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Exhibiting significant potential for sustainable packaging due to their renewability and biodegradability, soy protein isolate (SPI) films are nevertheless critically hampered by inherent brittleness, poor water resistance, and a lack of bioactivity. Herein, we demonstrate a hierarchical multi-network strategy that transforms SPI into a high-performance, functional biocomposite. A robust covalent backbone was forged via Schiff base cross-linking between SPI and dialdehyde cellulose nanocrystals (DACNCs) derived from agricultural biomass, while proanthocyanidins (PAs) were strategically incorporated to create a secondary, pervasive hydrogen-bonding network. This hierarchical architecture effectively overcomes the typical trade-offs between mechanical strength and functionality seen in singly modified biopolymers, unlocking a suite of remarkable performance enhancements. The optimized film exhibited a 491% increase in tensile strength (to 15.54 MPa) and elevated thermal stability to 330 °C. Critically, the film was endowed with potent functionalities, including complete UV-blocking, high antioxidant capacity (93.2% ABTS scavenging), and strong, broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. The film's practical efficacy was validated in a preservation test, where the coating extended blueberry shelf life by inhibiting fungal spoilage and reducing weight loss by nearly 30% relative to uncoated controls after 15 days of storage. This work provides a powerful framework for developing advanced biocomposites with tailored properties for active food packaging and beyond.
Source: Polymers
Authors: Jiapeng Wei, Kehao Fan, Manting Meng, Zhiyong Qin, Ningjing Sun
Institutions: Guangxi University, Baoshan University
Language: English
Subfield: Biomaterials
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
OpenAlex ID: W4415489626