Abstract
Nanocomposites obtained from the incorporation of synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles (≈10 nm average primary particle size) in different amounts, ranging from 0.5 to 5 wt.%, into a biodegradable polycaprolactone matrix are achieved via a straightforward and commercial melting processing. The resulting nanocomposites have been structurally and thermally characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), wide/small angle X-ray diffraction (WAXS/SAXS, respectively) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). TEM evaluation provides evidence of an excellent nanometric dispersion of the oxide component in the polymeric matrix, with aggregates having an average size well below 100 nm. Presence of these TiO2 nanoparticles induces a nucleant effect during polymer crystallization. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity of nanocomposites has been tested using both UV and visible light against Gram-negative Escherichia coli bacteria and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus. The bactericidal behavior has been explained through the analysis of the material optical properties, with a key role played by the creation of new electronic states within the polymer-based nanocomposites.
Highlights
Food packaging plays a decisive role in achieving protection and preservation of all types of food, from oxidative and microbial spoilage, as well as dehydration and, extends the shelf life of the food product
TiO2-anatase works under UV light excitation with energy above the corresponding band gap, forming energy-rich electron-hole pairs. Such charge carriers are able to interact with microorganisms, rendering biocidal properties to the corresponding polymer-based nanocomposite films [10,11,12,13]
The polycaprolactone is semicrystalline and wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXS) experiments were performed to determine the influence of TiO2 nanoparticle incorporation on the crystal lattice developed in the different nanocomposites
Summary
Food packaging plays a decisive role in achieving protection and preservation of all types of food, from oxidative and microbial spoilage, as well as dehydration and, extends the shelf life of the food product. The most effective solutions to promote both food and environment preservation, in this type of packaging might comprise, on one hand, the replacement of such materials for other environmentally friendly packaging ones based, for instance, on biodegradable polymers, and, on the other hand, the incorporation of some antimicrobial agent that minimizes and even prevents the growth and adhesion of detrimental microorganisms. Concerning the former aspect, poly(ε-caprolactone), PCL, which is a semicrystalline linear aliphatic polyester, could be a good candidate. Such charge carriers are able to interact with microorganisms, rendering biocidal properties to the corresponding polymer-based nanocomposite films [10,11,12,13]
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