Biodegradable Packaging Research Articles

Exploring sustainable food packaging: Nanocellulose composite films with enhanced mechanical strength, antibacterial performance, and biodegradability

Food packaging films play a vital role in preserving and protecting food. However, due to their non-biodegradability, conventional packaging materials have led to significant environmental pollution. To overcome this hurdle, we have developed safe, innovative, sustainable and biodegradable packaging materials that can effectively extend the shelf life of food. In this study, two types of cellulose materials cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) with complementary roles were combined to prepare nanocellulose composite films with high transparency (90.3 %) of a certain thickness (30 ± 0.019 μm) by solution casting method, and their mechanical properties were further optimized by the addition of plasticizer-glycerol (Gly) and cross-linking agent-glutaraldehyde (GA), so as to maintain the strong tensile strength (≈112.60 MPa) and better malleability (4.12 %). In addition, we loaded the natural active agent tea polyphenols (TPs) with different concentrations to study the inhibition effect on E.coli and S.aureus and to simulate food packaging. Finally, we also found that the synthesized nanocellulose composite films can also achieve rapid degradation in a short time through soil burial, water flushing and immersion. The excellent performance demonstrated in this study provides reference value for further replacing petroleum-based materials with biomass materials in the field of food packaging.

Reinforcement of Polylactic Acid / Poly Butylene Adipate-co-Terephthalate blends by starch addition: A coupled computational and experimental study

Poly Lactic Acid / Poly Butylene Adipate-co-Terephthalate blends are used as packaging green materials since they constitute hydrophilic and biodegradable plastic. With the aim of improving the mechanical characteristics of such blends as biodegradable packaging materials for food products the addition of starch has been considered. In silico test performed by classical molecular dynamics highlighted that the addition of starch can reinforce the polymeric structure via starch-polymer interactions, suggesting that starch can be a suitable material to be added to the Poly Lactic Acid / Poly Butylene Adipate-co-Terephthalate blend to obtain more resistant packaging materials. Experimental analysis of the mechanical properties of the polymeric blend containing different amounts of starch confirmed what foreseen by MD, highlighting an increase of Young modulus and glass transition as a function of added starch. The coupled theoretical/experimental approach constitutes added value of the present work, furnishing important data on the reinforcement of the packaging material performances and a molecule-based interpretation and comprehension of the observed phenomenon.

Green Preparation and Functional Properties of Reinforced All-Cellulose Membranes Made from Corn Straw.

In this study, all-cellulose nanocomposite (ACNC) was successfully prepared through a green and sustainable approach by using corn stalk as raw material, water as regeneration solvent, and recyclable two-component ionic liquid/DMSO as the solvent to dissolve cellulose. The morphology and structural properties of ACNC were determined by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis, indicating homogeneity and good crystallinity. In addition, a comprehensive characterization of ACNC showed that CNF not only improved the thermal stability and mechanical characteristics of ACNC, but also significantly improved the oxygen barrier performance. The ACNC prepared in this work has a good appearance, smooth surface, and good optical transparency, which provides a potential application prospect for converting cellulose wastes such as corn straws into biodegradable packaging materials and electronic device encapsulation materials.

A Novel Approach of Manufacturing Sustainable Seamless Jute Bags and Evaluation of Its Properties: A Comparative Study with Commercial Bags

ABSTRACT To reduce the adverse impact of synthetic bags on carbon footprints, greenhouse gases, and global warming, there is a rising demand for biodegradable and sustainable packaging material, especially for packing crops and food. Bags made from natural fibers are the finest alternative to synthetic ones. Jute is one of the most in-demand natural fibers in the packaging industry. Nevertheless, the traditional production method is more process-oriented, requiring more time and resulting in more expensive bags. Bowing problems induced by side seams cause sack bundles to roll during transport, which is also another issue. This study describes a unique process for producing seamless jute bags and sacks, eliminating the current processes in favor of fewer processes. A mechanical left-handed dobby loom with a cutting arrangement for separating the sacks produced continuous sack weaving. The tensile and seam strength of the produced sacks were evaluated and found to be comparable to those of commercially available sacks. In addition, one-way ANOVA and regression studies demonstrated the results significance. This developed method will increase productivity while reducing energy consumption, resulting in inexpensive packaging products and a solution to the transportation issue.

Synthesis and characterization of polysaccharide- and protein-based edible films and application as packaging materials for fresh fish fillets

The rising packaging industry together with global demand for sustainable production has increased the interest in developing biodegradable packaging materials. The aim of the study was to develop edible films based on pectin, gelatin, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and evaluate their applicability as biodegradable packaging materials for gilthead seabream fillets. Mechanical properties, water barriers, wettability of the films through contact angle measurement, optical, and UV–Vis barrier properties were evaluated for food packaging applications. The effective blend of polysaccharide and protein film-forming solutions was confirmed by the produced films with excellent optical properties, acceptable mechanical properties and adequate barriers to water vapor. The contact angle for pectin based and gelatin based films were higher than 90° indicating the hydrophobic films, while HPMC based films had contact angle lower than 90°. The produced films were tested as alternative and environmentally friendly packaging materials for gilthead seabream fillets during refrigerated storage. All tested packaging conditions resulted in similar shelf-life in packed gilthead seabream fillets (i.e. 7–8 days at 2 °C). The results showed that the developed films may reduce the use of conventional petroleum-based food packaging materials without affecting the shelf-life of fish.

Recent advances in production of sustainable and biodegradable polymers from agro-food waste: Applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicines

Agro-food waste is a rich source of biopolymers such as cellulose, chitin, and starch, which have been shown to possess excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low toxicity. These properties make biopolymers from agro-food waste for its application in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Thus, this review highlighted the properties, processing methods, and applications of biopolymers derived from various agro-food waste sources. We also highlight recent advances in the development of biopolymers from agro-food waste and their potential for future tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications, including drug delivery, wound healing, tissue engineering, biodegradable packaging, excipients, dental applications, diagnostic tools, and medical implants. Additionally, it explores the challenges, prospects, and future directions in this rapidly evolving field. The review showed the evolution of production techniques for transforming agro-food waste into valuable biopolymers. However, these biopolymers serving as the cornerstone in scaffold development and drug delivery systems. With their role in wound dressings, cell encapsulation, and regenerative therapies, biopolymers promote efficient wound healing, cell transplantation, and diverse regenerative treatments. Biopolymers support various regenerative treatments, including cartilage and bone regeneration, nerve repair, and organ transplantation. Overall, this review concluded the potential of biopolymers from agro-food waste as a sustainable and cost-effective solution in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, offering innovative solutions for medical treatments and promoting the advancement of these fields.

Emerging approaches of utilizing trees to produce advanced structural and functional materials.

The global number of trees is approximately 3 trillion, covering 31% of the land area. Trees are considered a cheap, abundant, renewable, and environmentally friendly feedstock for producing advanced structural and functional materials toward a widespread application in sustainable energy and environment. In this highlight, we reveal the structure and composition of wood, leaves, and tree extracts, and then highlight the strategies to control their hierarchical structures and properties. Moreover, we provide an up-to-date overview of their emerging applications in sustainable buildings, ionic nanofluidics, batteries, capacitors, solar cells, environmental remediation, biodegradable packaging, and nanomaterial synthesis. Finally, we outline the challenges and opportunities in valorizing trees for creating a sustainable future.

Silicates as alternative pretreatment for cellulose pulp to obtain nanofibrils for application in biodegradable packaging: a technical review

Silicates as alternative pretreatment for cellulose pulp to obtain nanofibrils for application in biodegradable packaging: a technical review

Nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HAP) from Pangasius bone side streams and its application as a reinforcing agent in biodegradable food packaging films

The bone side streams from catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) were used to produce nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HAP) by a calcination method.

Sustainable Packaging Design using Life Cycle Thinking

This research examines environmental impact data, sustainable packaging qualities, consumer feedback surveys, and price comparisons to draw important findings. Research focuses on “Packaging Sustainability Revolution: Life Cycle Thinking Reveals Eco-Friendly Innovations.” This research examines sustainable packaging design evolution. Life cycle analysis (LCA) showed that packaging materials had an average carbon footprint of 120 grams of CO2 per unit and a 60% recycling rate. This shows the diverse environmental impacts of packing options. A study of sustainable package design shows that individuals have preferences. The favorability of biodegradable, recyclable, and minimalist packaging increased significantly. In subjective consumer feedback surveys, Packaging A and Packaging B scored 8.3 and 8.7 total satisfaction. In contrast, Packaging C and D do well. The cost increases among models in Cost comparisons expenditures show the economic effects of sustainable design. This emphasizes the tight balance between consumer satisfaction and sustainable practices' economic sustainability. The empirical findings improve scholarly discourse on life cycle thinking in Cost comparisons by revealing the sustainability variables driving the Packaging Sustainability Revolution.

POTATO STARCH AND OTHER BIOPOLYMERS AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO PLASTICS – LEGAL REGULATIONS, OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR THE PACKAGING INDUSTRY

Background: Food packaging plays a crucial role throughout the product life-cycle, serving protec tive, informational and marketing functions. It should be durable, functional, safe and cost-effective. Non biodegradable synthetic materials, primarily derived from petroleum, dominate the global production of food packaging. In recent years, intensive research has been focused on the development and improvement of both biodegradable and non-biodegradable packaging made from polymers derived from renewable resources. These so-called bioplastics exhibit properties similar to synthetic materials, but offer additional benefits, including improved functionality and compostability. Starch which is used particularly as a base for producing edible films and thermoplastic starch (TPS) appears particularly promising in this regard. Results and Conclusions: The aim of the study was to discuss the latest legal regulations regarding packaging and the management of packaging waste in Poland and Europe. An overview of previous re search achievements was presented concerning the development of new, competitive materials for packag ing derived from renewable resources, with a specific focus on starch as a promising substrate for innova tive biopackaging. The limitations arising from the use of natural polymers as substitutes for synthetic materials were also discussed, along with potential challenges for the packaging industry. Attempts to produce innovative multilayer materials, composites with polyolefins, materials with nanostructures, active and intelligent packaging and packaging based on waste products from food industry were outlined. Based on literature reports, it can be concluded that bioplastics derived from renewable polymers offer an interesting alternative to traditional synthetic packaging, with starch being a promising substrate for the production of edible films and composite materials.

Characterization of Sodium Alginate-Based Edible Film with Addition of Gelatin and Casein

Edible film is a form of biodegradable packaging that is easily biodegradable and can be consumed at the same time with the product. The purpose of this study is to find characterization of edible films including physical tests (thickness, tensile strength, elongation, elasticity and high temperature resistance), chemical tests (water content and water vapor transmission rate), solubility tests and biodegradability tests on sodium alginate/glicerol-based edible films with the addition of gelatin and casein. This study was conducted using the single factor group random design method with data analysis using SPSS 29 software. The results showed that edible films made from only sodium alginate and glycerol only have advantages in characteristics of elasticity, edible films made from sodium alginate, glycerol and gelatin have advantages in characteristics of elongation, water content, solubility and biodegradability. Edible films made from sodium alginate, glycerol and casein have advantages in characteristics of consumer preferences, thickness, tensile strength, high temperature resistance and water vapor transmission rate.

Physicochemical properties of bioplastic based on hydroxyethylcellulose and polyvinylpyrrolidone blend

The aim of this study is to develop a bioplastic based on hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) and polyvinilpyrrolidone (PVP) which is applied as packaging materials. The effect of incorporation of PVP into HEC on the physicochemical properties of its blend films are investigated. The FTIR and DSC analysis denote that incorporation of PVP induce the intermolecular hydrogen bonds to occur more intensely. The XRD diffractograms indicate that the incorporation of PVP reduces the crystallinity of the film. The mechanical properties of the films become greater as the PVP content increases, and the optimum composition of HEC/PVP is at 5:3 mass ratio with a tensile strength of 34.8?3.4 MPa; elongation at break 104.3?4.9 %; and an elastic modulus of 0.10?0.02 GPa. The SEM and DSC analysis signify an excellent compatibility and miscibility between HEC and PVP. The incorporation of PVP increase the transparency and hydrophilicity of the film. The water vapor transmission rate of the films is relatively unchanged due to the incorporation of PVP. The TGA and DSC analysis reveal that the incorporation of PVP increases the thermal stability and the glass transition temperature of the film. This bioplastic film could be an alternative for biodegradable packaging material.

Investigating the Impact of Polyvinyl Alcohol Addition on the Thermal Behavior and Chemical Structure of Electrospun Cellulose Nanofibers

The study aimed to investigate the effect of adding polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) on the chemical and thermal properties of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs). The CNF was prepared using electrospinning with varying amounts of PVA, and the resulting samples were analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The FTIR results showed that adding PVA did not significantly affect the chemical structure of CNF but led to the appearance of new peaks attributed to the characteristic peaks of both CNF and PVA. Moreover, the TGA results revealed that all samples underwent weight degradation after being heated from 350°C. The addition and removal of PVA did not significantly alter the thermal behavior of the CNF. Overall, the results suggested that PVA can be used as a compatible additive to CNF without significant changes to their properties, which could have potential applications in various fields, including biodegradable packaging and drug delivery systems.

Bioactive compounds and benefits of by-products of Amazon babassu oil production: potential for dietary supplement, biomedical and food applications.

Babassu coconut (Attalea speciosa syn. Orbignya phalerata) contains an oil-rich nut and is primarily found in South America's Amazon region. Future market researchers predict an increase in the babassu oil market from USD 227.7 million in 2022 to USD 347.0 million by 2032, and the yield of babassu oil from babassu-processed waste could reach 90%. Of these, mesocarp flour is an underrated by-product used only for animal feed purposes by local producers. This comprehensive review focuses on advances in knowledge and understanding of phytochemicals from babassu oil by-products considering the mechanisms of action - covering antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, immunomodulatory, and anticancer effects. Babassu coconut fruit contains free fatty acids, (poly)phenols, phytosterols, and triterpenes. Pytochemicals, antiparasitic and antibacterial activities of babassu mesocarp flour were shown, but fungi and viruses can get more attention. Beyond its antioxidant capacity, babassu mesocarp flour showed potential as a dietary food supplement. Aqueous suspensions of mesocarp flour with a higher preference for cancer cells than normal cells and an antithrombotic effect were also identified, probably related to the antioxidant capacity of its secondary metabolites. Mesocarp flour, a starch-rich fraction, is promising for application as biodegradable packaging to improve the oxidative stability of foods. Finally, low-added value fractions can be considered bio-waste/co-products, and their phytochemicals may attract interest for applications in medicine and nutrition. Toxicological concerns, trends, and gaps are discussed for the future of foods and related sciences.

Recent advances in the fabrication, characterization and application of starch-based materials for active food packaging: hydrogels and aerogels

With the increasing awareness of the harmful effects of plastics on the environment, the demand for biodegradable packaging materials is growing.

Revolutionizing Packaging and Consumer Products: Exploring the Potential of Biodegradable Materials

The need to reduce environmental degradation has made it more crucial than at any time to identify sustainable packaging and consumer goods solutions. To bring the consumer goods industry into compliance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this research investigates the revolutionary potential of biodegradable materials. Through a priority on the lifetime assessment from manufacturing industries to post-consumer waste management, everyone looks at the most recent developments in the biodegradable material sciences and how they apply to packaging design. Our study incorporates findings from various fields to evaluate the social, economic, and environmental effects of biodegradable packaging options. This idea is an original framework that may be incorporated into the supply chain to reduce environmental impact and improve the circular economy principles. According to the research, biodegradable materials stimulate innovation, consumer responsibility, and regulatory compliance and present a practical substitute for conventional packaging. To support sustainable change in the sector, the research investigation ends with suggested strategies for stakeholders that highlight the value of market incentives, consumer education, and regulation. By presenting practical insights into the application of biodegradable materials as a catalyst for eco-innovation in consumer goods, this study advances the conversation on sustainable development.

The Impact of Chitosan Incorporation on the Mechanical Characteristics of Biodegradable Packaging based on PLA/PCL Blend

The development of environmentally sustainable plastics has gained prominence due to their eco-friendliness and renewable nature. In this research, eco-friendly plastic was formulated by blending Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Polycaprolactone (PCL) with the incorporation of chitosan as a filler. The primary objective of this study is to scrutinize and delineate the influence of varying compositions of PLA/PCL/chitosan on the mechanical attributes of eco-friendly plastics. This was achieved through hot pressing methods at a temperature of 200°C for a duration of 1 hour. The composition ratios for PLA/PCL were set at 2/8 g, 3/7 g, 5/5 g, 7/3 g, and 8/2 g, while chitosan compositions ranged from 0.2 g to 0.6 g. Comprehensive assessment of the eco-friendly plastics involved biodegradability tests, tensile strength measurements, elongation evaluations, functional group analyses, and examination of plastic film morphology. Optimal performance, ascertained through characterization, was achieved with a composition of PLA/PCL/Chitosan at 8/2/0.6 g, yielding a 38.8% degradation rate, a tensile strength of 42.53 MPa with a composition of PLA/PCL/Chitosan at 8/2/0.4 g, and an elongation of 6.96% with a composition of PLA/PCL/Chitosan at 8/2/0.2 g. The functional groups identified included N-H, C-H, C=O, and C-O groups, indicating a blending process without the formation of new functional groups. Morphology testing revealed a smooth surface, although some undissolved chitosan particles were evident, likely due to non-uniform blending.

Consumer-driven evaluation of Ecoplas as a sustainable flexible packaging in Jakarta

400 million tons of plastic waste pollute the environment every year, and then 8 million tons of plastic waste have ended up in the ocean. Flexible plastic waste accounts for 76% of plastic waste entering the environment in Indonesia. Ecoplas have been developed in Jakarta, as starch-based biodegradable packaging. This study aims to 1) determine the ranking of Ecoplas compared to PP, r-PP, and Oxo-biodegradable; 2) Identify criteria that affect the path of Ecoplas packaging into sustainable packaging. Data collection was conducted through a questionnaire involving 96 consumers of flexible packaging in Jakarta, taken by convenience sampling. In this study, Ecoplas packaging was evaluated using PROMETHEE II to generate rankings, and Rainbow-PROMETHEE to review criteria affecting packaging sustainability. The results show that PP packaging (0.1168) remains the most preferred option for flexible packaging, followed by Oxo-biodegradable (0,0020), Ecoplas (-0,0113), and r-PP (-0,1076). Ecoplas have good criteria on willingness to purchase (Ec), consumers' environmental preferences (En), property preference (T1), packaging safety preference (T3), and consumer knowledge of post-consumer (S2). Aspects of criteria that need to be improved by Ecoplas i.e. awareness of alternative packaging usage (S1) and accessibility (S3 & S4), and packaging durability preference (S2). Ecoplas is promising to be an alternative to flexible packaging, as shown by the good evaluation and willingness of consumers to purchase it as eco-friendly packaging. However, Ecoplas packaging needs to improve the level of packaging properties and accessibility level for consumers to find it easily.

Do sustainable brands actually supply or is it just a advertising gimmick to draw customers in 2023?

This paper will awareness at the concept of sustainable brands, which s growing in popularity because the want to take a stand towards climate trade and sustainability has become increasingly more urgent. This paper will also position a light on brands who cowl their practices by way of covering it up via using the name of sustainability and greenwashing the clients. Corporations have responded to this name via introducing “sustainable” merchandise and initiatives, but, it can often be difficult for clients to decide if those efforts are authentic or just marketing ploys used to draw eco-aware clients. A closer exam famous that there exist varying stages of corporate commitment when it comes to sustainability practices with a few corporations going a long way past what's required. The advent of biodegradable packaging, renewable power generation investments and supply chain transparency are all warning signs that a agency takes its environmental obligation severely. However, mere branding initiatives which includes new labelling logos can equate more from show than substance and do no longer essential replicate real development toward meaningful change within their operations or along the product lifecycle. moreover, companies may additionally find success the use of procedures like greenwashing which involves sacrificing impactful choices at the same time as highlighting marginal accomplishments on social media structures without disclosing potential liabilities related to chronic demanding situations inclusive of carbon emissions etc... consequently, ultimately management groups need to make sure pledges made cozy long time purchase over fleeting purchaser sentiment by myself if they assume shareholders rewards accordingly. In end despite the fact that many companies today boast an International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM) Volume: 07 Issue: 12 | December - 2023 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930 © 2023, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM27787 | Page 2 array of green credentials it remains up each people investigation speak whether these claims correspond real tangible modifications both internally externally – as an alternative truely taglines aimed toward invoking superb feelings among their goal demographic before speedy shifting onto subsequent undertaking even as investing minimum monetary sources into studies development order supply in reality beneficial outcomes society planet alike.—precis—To summarize, sustainable emblem techniques need to pass past simple surface level messaging if lasting benefit meant for people planet alike during contemporary accelerating era disruptive innovation