Green Packaging: Carrageenan with Clove Oil Nanoencapsulation

Abstract

The global urgency surrounding plastic waste-induced pollution has ignited significant interest in the biodegradable packaging sector, leading to a dynamic and expanding realm of biodegradable research. Nonetheless, effectively incorporating active agents into packaging materials faces hurdles related to stability and durability. This study takes a momentous leap in this context by shedding light on the transformative potential of integrating clove oil in macro and nanoencapsulation forms into carrageenan-glycerol matrices. A highlight emerges in the remarkable enhancement achieved through nanoencapsulation—a technique that substantially bolsters packaging performance. This improvement is evident in a noteworthy reduction of water vapor transmission, plummeting from an initial 11.011 to merely 6.903 g.mm m-2 d-1. This nearly fifty percent reduction underscores the efficacy of nanoencapsulation in enhancing packaging attributes. Concurrently, the study delves into the nuances of the carrageenan-clove oil composition, unveiling its profound influence on packaging strength, by systematically increasing the carrageenan-clove oil ratio, packaging strength triples, soaring from an initial 0.421 to an impressive 1.434 N/mm. Concerns of heightened brittleness due to increased carrageenan content are firmly dispelled, substantiated by consistent tensile stress values. In summary, this comprehensive investigation advances the core attributes of biodegradable packaging and presents a strategic and adept approach to address the intricate sustainability issues. Through adept manipulation of clove oil integration, the study pioneers the evolution of biodegradable packaging materials, paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.