Bionanocomposite Films Research Articles

Preparation and characterization of a konjac glucomannan-based bio-nanocomposite film and its application in cherry tomato preservation

Strategies to overcome the limitations of konjac glucomannan (KGM) films, including their poor mechanical properties, low water resistance, and limited bioactivity, are being developed. In this study, fucoidan-chitosan nanoparticles encapsulating tea polyphenols (TP-FCNPs) were prepared using an electrostatic self-assembly method. Subsequently, a novel bio-nanocomposite film was prepared by incorporating TP-FCNPs as fillers into a KGM-based membrane. The microstructural, physical, and biological properties of the nanocomposite films were evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations showed that in the KGM/TP-FCNPs containing 1–7% TP-FCNPs, the TP-FCNPs were uniformly distributed throughout the KGM film matrix. The highest tensile strength of KGM/TP-FCNPs films was 33.05 ± 1.57 MPa, which was 404.53% that of pure KGM film. Incorporating TP-FCNPs also significantly enhanced the UV absorption ability and antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the bio-nanocomposite films, while reducing their transmittance. In addition, KGM/TP-FCNPs used as packaging effectively reduced fruit mass loss and firmness loss, inhibited microbial growth, and significantly prolonged fruit shelf-life on day 21 of the cherry tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum var. cerasiforme A. Gray) packaging trial. In conclusion, the KGM/TP-FCNPs bio-nanocomposite films exhibit satisfactory properties, and thus, show potential for applications in fruit preservation.

A dual-layer nano dressing with enhanced antimicrobial and healing properties via sesame nanoemulgel with efficient levofloxacin delivery for wound management

Creating suitable wound dressings is considered a promising approach for treating severe skin injuries, as they can provide the environment for healing and protection against infection. The optimum wound dressing should possess biocompatibility, high absorbency, antimicrobial activity, breathability, and mechanical strength. So, in this study, we created a two-layer dressing that includes a surface layer composed of xanthan, polyvinyl alcohol, and sesame oil, as well as a nanofibrous sublayer that contains polyvinyl alcohol, collagen, levofloxacin, and sesame oil nanoemulsion (Video 1). This dual structure is designed to offer antimicrobial properties and facilitate wound healing while having suitable physical stability. The films showed desirable morphological features and significantly increased flexibility (less than 1000). These features were respectively proven through scanning electron microscopy and tensile strength. Laboratory investigations were conducted to examine the precise compatibility and anti-inflammatory features. According to the obtained results, the nanosystems showed compatibility with hemolysis below 5 percent and by adding sesame oil to the films, their anti-inflammatory properties (88 ± 0.19 %) and blood compatibility (1.3507 ± 0.20) increased. In-vivo studies using the rat skin defect model showed that the dressings significantly accelerate the closure of skin wounds and enhance the reconstruction of skin appendage structures. The therapeutic effect resulted from reducing inflammatory factors, and the film's antimicrobial properties effectively prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms. In conclusion, the study suggests that the new nano-biocomposite films suit wound management.

Improvement in the thermal, mechanical and rheological properties of polyamide-11 (PA11) nanobiocomposite films as a result of the influence of the composition and type of nanofiller

Improvement in the thermal, mechanical and rheological properties of polyamide-11 (PA11) nanobiocomposite films as a result of the influence of the composition and type of nanofiller

The impact of nanofiller composition and nature on the enhancement of mechanical and rheological properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nanobiocomposite films is achieved by regulating the spacing of organic fillers and PLA crystallinity

The impact of nanofiller composition and nature on the enhancement of mechanical and rheological properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nanobiocomposite films is achieved by regulating the spacing of organic fillers and PLA crystallinity

Insights into the effect of carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals on mechanical and barrier properties of gelatin films for flexible packaging applications

In this study, gelatin/carboxylated cellulose nanocrystal (cCNC) bionanocomposite films were developed as an eco-friendly alternative to non-biodegradable flexible plastic packaging. Cellulose nanocrystals were modified by 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO)-mediated oxidation (cCNC) to strategically interact with amino groups present in the gelatin macromolecular backbone. Gelatin/cCNC bionanocomposite films (0.5–6.0 wt% cCNC) obtained by solution casting were transparent to visible light while displayed high UV-blocking properties. The chemical compatibility between gelatin and cCNC was deepened by electrostatic COO−/NH3+ interactions, as detected by FTIR spectroscopy and morphologically indicated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Accordingly, Young's modulus and tensile strength of films were largely increased by 80 and 64 %, respectively, specifically near the cCNC percolation threshold (4 wt%), whereas the water vapor permeability (WVP) was reduced by 52 % at the optimum 6.0 wt% cCNC content in relation to the non-reinforced gelatin matrix (0.10 vs. 0.18 g H2O mm m−2 h−1 kPa−1). The oxygen transmission rates (OTR) of the gelatin/cCNC bionanocomposites were < 0.01 cm3 m-2 day−1, making them technically competitive to most promising biopolymers like polycaprolactone (PCL) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA). This study reveals how TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanocrystals can broaden the performance of biodegradable gelatin films for use in packaging. The gelatin/cCNC bionanocomposites also represents an effective approach for designing newly sustainability-inspired flexible materials from the surface modification of nanocelluloses targeting specific interactions with protein structures.

Multifunctional bio-nanocomposite films integrated with essential oils@metal−phenolic network nanocapsules for durable fruit preservation

Food spoilage exacerbates global hunger and poverty, necessitating urgent advancements in food shelf life extension methodologies. However, balancing antibacterial efficacy for food preservation with human and environmental safety remains a significant challenge. Natural essential oils (EOs), known for their potent antibacterial and antioxidant properties, offer eco-friendly alternatives, yet their high volatility and instability limit practical applications. Herein, we conducted the encapsulation of EOs within biocompatible metal phenolic networks (MPNs) to create EOs@MPN nanocapsules. Subsequently, these nanocapsules were integrated into bio-nanocomposite films composed of natural soy protein isolate (SPI) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). The resulting films exhibited robust mechanical properties (Tensile Strength >10 MPa) and significantly enhanced antioxidant activity (7-fold higher than pure films). Importantly, the synergistic combination of EOs and MPNs conferred enhanced antibacterial efficacy. Safety assessments confirmed the bio-nanocomposite films' high biodegradability (> 90 %) and negligible cytotoxicity, ensuring environmental sustainability and human health safety. In practical applications, the bio-nanocomposite films effectively delayed the surface browning of fresh-cut fruits for up to 48 h, demonstrating a pronounced synergistic antioxidative effect against oxidation. Moreover, tomatoes and blueberries packaged with the bio-nanocomposite films still maintained freshness for up to 12 days, offering promising strategies for extending the shelf life of perishable fruits. These findings underscore the potential of EOs@MPN-based bio-nanocomposite films as sustainable solutions for food preservation and highlight their practical viability in mitigating food spoilage and enhancing food security globally.

Innovative packaging solutions for paneer shelf stability: chitosan, montmorillonite, and starch nanocrystals reinforced gluten based bionanocomposite films

Innovative packaging solutions for paneer shelf stability: chitosan, montmorillonite, and starch nanocrystals reinforced gluten based bionanocomposite films

Preparation and characterization of nanobiocomposite films from sodium caseinate, halloysite nanoclay, and geraniol and application on capsicum (Capsicum annuum) fruits as a case study

Plastics are advantageous in food packaging due to their mechanical strength, flexibility, and low-cost nature. However, their prolonged degradation is not environmentally friendly. Therefore, there is a need to develop alternative food packaging systems. To this end, nature-derived materials such as milk proteins provide a viable solution. In this study, sodium caseinate (SC) based nanobiocomposite films were developed with the incorporation of halloysite nanoclay (HS) and geraniol essential oil (GR). The films exhibited reduced moisture content (from 13.47% ± 0.84%–7.85% ± 0.72%), water solubility (from 20.55% ± 0.80%–9.47% ± 1.06%), water vapor transmission rate (from 84.50 ± 8.06 to 37.33 ± 6.46 g h−1m−2) and increased surface hydrophobicity (contact angle from 53.27 ± 2.97 to 82.70 ± 1.42°) compared to pure SC films. The films were uniform with a semi-crystalline microstructure and an increase in the β-sheet to α-helix ratio was observed due to the increase in the loading concentration of HS and GR. Adding HS and GR improved the mechanical properties, and Young's modulus increased from 69.85 ± 6.12 to 110.12 ± 6.99 MPa. The films demonstrated potent antimicrobial efficacy against Gram-positive Bacillus cereus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli. The SC/HS/GR dispersions could extend the shelf-life of capsicum fruits by reducing weight loss and color change and maintaining firmness. Overall, this research highlights the potential of milk protein-based films incorporated with halloysite and geraniol as sustainable and effective solutions for active food packaging applications.

ZIF-8 metal organic framework, carboxymethylcellulose and polyvinyl alcohol bio-nanocomposite controlled-release phosphorus fertilizer: Improved P management and tomato growth

This study is concerned with the synthesis, characterization, and application of bio-nanocomposite films using a mixture of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) integrated with zeolitic imidazolate type 8 (ZIF-8) nanoparticles (NPs). The advanced bio-nanocomposites were employed as a coating for triple superphosphate (TSP) fertilizers, and their impact on tomato plant growth was evaluated. The successful integration of ZIF-8 into the composite matrix was determined by distinct changes in Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, indicating significant structural modifications. Morphological analyses by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed alterations in the surface characteristics of the CMC/PVA films. Furthermore, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed the elemental composition of the resulting nanocomposite. The precision-coated TSP fertilizers exhibited a notable enhancement in mechanical strength, as evidenced by their superior resistance to crushing. The coated TSP also exhibited a controlled release of phosphorus over time, prolonging the release of phosphorus for up to 9 days in water and 50 days in soil. In soil, the 0.5 % ZIF-8 NP coating delayed the release of phosphorus, with only 12.29 ± 2.75 % released after five days compared to 96.96 ± 2.03 % for uncoated TSP. The application of coated TSP fertilizers to tomato plants (of the MARIA variety) resulted in a 13.79 % increase in leaf number and a 15.83 % increase in plant height compared to uncoated TSP. This research underscores the pivotal role of advanced coating fertilizers in fostering sustainable and efficient agricultural practices, thereby making a substantial contribution to the advancement of innovative agrochemical solutions.

Preparation and characterization of pectin/hydroxyethyl cellulose/clay/TiO2 bionanocomposite films for microbial pathogen removal from contaminated water

Some of conventional wastewater disinfectants can have a harmful influence on the environment as well as human health. The aim of this investigation was synthesis and characterizes ecofriendly pectin/hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC)/clay and pectin/HEC/clay incorporated with titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) and use the prepared bionanocomposite as microbial disinfectants for real wastewater. Pectin/HEC/clay and pectin/HEC/clay/TiO2 bionanocomposite were characterized by various methods including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Mechanical properties and water vapor permeability (WVP) were carried out. The results of SEM showed that, the prepared bionanocomposite had a smooth surface. Additionally, TiO2 nanoparticles to the pectin/HEC/clay composites may lead to changes in the FTIR spectrum. The intensity of XRD peaks indicated that, TiO2NPs was small size crystallite. TGA illustrated that pectin has moderate thermal stability, while HEC generally exhibits good thermal stability. The TEM showed that, TiO2 nanoparticles have diameters <25 nm. On the other hand, antimicrobial activities of pectin/HEC/clay against Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans have been enhanced by adding TiO2NPs. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of pectin/HEC/clay/TiO2 against E. coli was 200 mg/mL. Moreover, complete eradication of E. coli, Salmonella and Candida spp. from real wastewater was observed by using pectin/HEC/clay/TiO2 bionanocomposite. Finally, it can be concluded that, the synthesized bionanocomposite is environmentally friendly and considered an excellent disinfectant matter for removal of the microbial pathogens from wastewater to safely reuse.

Fabrication and characterization of bio-nanocomposite from sweet potato starch and Moringa oleifera leaf extract loaded with carbon quantum dots from Coffea arabica grounds

The study aims to generate and characterize a bio-nanocomposite film derived from sweet potato starch and Moringa oleifera leaf extract and carbon quantum dots (CQDs) derived from Arabica coffee grounds employing the solvent casting method. The effect of various concentrations of CQDs (0–400 ppm) was investigated on the physicochemical properties, UV-barrier, antioxidant properties, and biodegradability of the bionanocomposite (BNC) films. The morphological surface of the bio-nanocomposite was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were performed to evaluate the thermal stability of the samples. Mechanical properties, including tensile strength (TS) and elongation at break (EB), were also assessed. The results show that the incorporation of CQDs with starch-based biofilms had a remarkable impact on the properties of BNC. SEM images confirm the homogeneous structure of the films with slight granulations. Colorimetric analysis indicates the increase in color difference of BNCs as the concentration of CQDs varied. The BNC100 formulation confirmed batter opacity, transparency, and UV-barrier properties while BNC50 possessed significant improvement in tensile, elongation as well as a substantial increase in the melting point. FTIR and XRD analysis confirmed proper chemical interactions among the components within the polymeric structure of the BNC film. In addition, CQD integration has also steadily enhanced the antioxidant properties and biodegradability of BNC films. The fabricated films with CQDs have demonstrated a better quality in terms of optical properties, physical properties, thermomechanical properties, biodegradation rate, and antioxidant behavior that suggest the film's application in food packaging or other relevant fields.

Chitosan, gelatin and pectin based bionanocomposite films with rosemary essential oil as an active ingredient for future foods

Bionanocomposite films of three biopolymers including chitosan, gelatin, and pectin incorporated with rosemary essential oil (REO) were developed and characterized in terms of their physical, structural, mechanical, morphological, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Incorporation of REO showed an increased hydrophobic nature thus, improved water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), tensile strength (TS), elongation-at-break (EAB), and thermal stability significantly (P ≤ 0.05) as compared to the control films. The addition of REO leads to more opaque films with relatively increased microstructural heterogeneity, resulting in an increase in film opacity. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and particle size revealed that REO incorporation exhibits high physicochemical stability in chitosan, gelatin, and pectin bionanocomposite films. Incorporation of REO exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against the tested pathogenic strains (Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli). Furthermore, the addition of REO increased the inhibitory activity of films against ABTS and DPPH free radicals. Therefore, chitosan, gelatin, and pectin-based bionanocomposite films containing REO as food packaging could act as a potential barrier to extending food shelf life.

Effect of soybean protein isolated/cellulose nanofibers-based nano-biocomposite films enriched with TiO2 nanoparticle and tannic acid on the quality properties of refrigerated common carp fillets

Effect of soybean protein isolated/cellulose nanofibers-based nano-biocomposite films enriched with TiO2 nanoparticle and tannic acid on the quality properties of refrigerated common carp fillets

Observation of Ultrahigh Photoconductivity in DNA-MoS2 Nano-Biocomposite.

A nano-biocomposite film with ultrahigh photoconductivity remains elusive and critical for bio-optoelectronic applications. A uniform, well-connected, high-concentration nanomaterial network in the biological matrix remains challenging to achieve high photoconductivity. Wafer-scale continuous nano-biocomposite film without surface deformations and cracks plays another major obstacle. Here ultrahigh photoconductivity is observed in deoxyribonucleic acid-molybdenum disulfide (DNA-MoS2) nano-biocomposite film by incorporating a high-concentration, well-percolated, and uniform MoS2 network in the ss-DNA matrix. This is achieved by utilizing DNA-MoS2 hydrogel formation, which results in crack-free, wafer-scale DNA-MoS2 nano-biocomposite films. Ultra-high photocurrent (5.5mA at 1V) with a record-high on/off ratio (1.3 × 106) is observed, five orders of magnitude higher than conventional biomaterials (≈101) reported so far. The incorporation of the Wely semimetal (Bismuth) as an electrical contact exhibits ultrahigh photoresponsivity (2.6 × 105 A W-1). Such high photoconductivity in DNA-MoS2 nano-biocomposite could bridge the gap between biology, electronics, and optics for innovative biomedicine, bioengineering, and neuroscience applications.

Nanolignin-containing cellulose nanofibrils (LCNF)-enabled multifunctional ratiometric fluorescent bio-nanocomposite films for food freshness monitoring

Herein, the nanolignin-containing cellulose nanofibrils (LCNF)-enabled ratiometric fluorescent bio-nanocomposite film is developed. Interestingly, the inclusion of LCNF in the cellulose-based film enhances the detecting performance of food freshness, such as high sensitivity to biogenic amines (BAs) (limit of detection (LOD) of up to 1.83 ppm) and ultrahigh discernible fluorescence color difference (ΔE = 113.11). The underlying mechanisms are the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), π - π interaction, and cation – π interaction between LCNF and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), as well as the increased hydrophobicity due to lignin, which increases the interactions of amines with FITC. Its color stability (up to 28 days) and mechanical property (49.4 Mpa) are simultaneously improved. Furthermore, a smartphone based detecting platform is developed to achieve access to food safety. This work presents a novel technology, which can have a great potential in the field of food packaging and safety.

In vitro bioactivity of biodegradable films based on chitosan/quince seed mucilage reinforced with ZnO-nanoparticle

In this study, biodegradable active films were designed by adding ZnO-NPs to the quince seed mucilage/chitosan matrix. The films were investigated for characterization and in vitro bioactivity. According to the results, a significant decrease in moisture content, water holding capacity and light (L*) occurred with the addition of ZnO-NP. (p < 0.05). FT-IR spectra showed the interaction between ZnO-NPs and N-H quince seed mucilage and chitosan groups. Nanocomposite films containing ZnO-NP showed improved thermal stability. The developed bionanocomposite films were easily buried in soil and subjected to degradation. The minimum degradation of the film in soil after 20 days was 62.02%. The maximum cell viability (%) of C/ZnO-NP and C/QSM/ZnO-NP films were determined as 86.81% and 91.22%, respectively, and the films were found to be non-toxic. Moreover, while the quince seed mucilage film did not show antibacterial performance, chitosan and ZnO NPs showed antibacterial effects against the tested bacteria Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 7644) and Escherichia coli O157:H7 (ATCC 35,150). In this context, the design bionanocomposite films can be used as an active food packaging material for food preservation by controlling food-borne pathogens. In addition, the developed films do not pose a threat to the environment and therefore have great potential for the sustainable food packaging industry.

Capsicum leaf protein-based bionanocomposite films for packaging application: Effect of corn starch content on film properties

The addition of corn starch (CS) enhances the interfacial adhesion of the film-forming liquids (FFLs), weakening the internal relative molecular motion. As a result, the rheological properties and zeta potential values of the FFLs were affected. A tight spatial network structure between capsicum leaf protein (CLP), lignocellulose nanocrystals (LNCs) and CS can be formed through intermolecular entanglement and hydrogen bonding interactions. The crystallinity, thermal degradation temperature, tensile strength and water contact angle of the protein-based bionanocomposite films (PBBFs) increased with increasing CS addition. This is due to the transformation of the secondary space structure of the CLP inside the PBBFs and the increase in cohesion. However, the excessive addition of CS forms aggregated clusters on the surface of PBBFs, which increases the surface roughness of PBBFs and causes more light scattering. Therefore, the brightness and yellowness values of the PBBFs increase, and the transmittance decreases.

Valorization of edible films based on chitosan/hydroxyethyl cellulose/olive leaf extract and TiO2-NPs for preserving sour cream

Biodegradable edible films for sour cream packaging were developed based on chitosan (CS), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), Olive leaf extract (OE), and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs). The prepared CS/HEC/TiO2-OE bionanocomposite films were evaluated for their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities as well as using FT-IR, mechanical, permeability, and contact angle. The effect of developed films on the lipid oxidation, microbiological load, and chemical properties of sour cream was investigated. The fabricated films had an antimicrobial impact against all tested strains. The film containing 8 % OE showed effective protection against fat oxidation, with a peroxide value of 3.21 meq O2/kg, a para-anisidine value 5.40, and free fatty acids of 0.82 mg KOH/kg. The films with OE 4 % and 8 % have a good effect on the microbiological load of sour cream for 90 days. These films did not influence the chemical composition of sour cream and therefore can be used in this sort of dairy product.

Preparation and Characterization of Bio-nanocomposite Films, Incorporated with Silver Nanoparticles

Preparation and Characterization of Bio-nanocomposite Films, Incorporated with Silver Nanoparticles

Novel chitosan-based smart bio-nanocomposite films incorporating TiO2 nanoparticles for white bread preservation

Chitosan (CS)-based bio-nanocomposite food packaging films were prepared via solvent-casting method by incorporating a unique combination of additives and fillers, including polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), glycerol, Tween 80, castor oil (CO), and nano titanium dioxide (TiO2) in various proportions to enhance film properties. For a comprehensive analysis of the synthesized films, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), tensile testing, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and UV–vis spectrophotometry were employed. Furthermore, the antimicrobial efficacy of the films against S. aureus, E. coli, and A. niger was examined to assess their potential to preserve food from foodborne pathogens. The results claimed that the inclusion of castor oil and TiO2 nanoparticles considerably improved antimicrobial properties, UV–vis light barrier properties, thermal stability, optical transparency, and mechanical strength of the films, while reducing their water solubility, moisture content, water vapor and oxygen permeability. Based on the overall analysis, CS/PVA/CO/TiO2–0.3 film can be selected as the optimal one for practical applications. Furthermore, the practical application of the optimum film was evaluated using white bread as a model food product. The modified film successfully extended the shelf life of bread to 10 days, surpassing the performance of commercial LDPE packaging (6 days), and showed promising attributes for applications in the food packaging sector. These films exhibit superior antimicrobial properties, improved mechanical strength, and extended shelf life for food products, marking a sustainable and efficient alternative to conventional plastic packaging in both scientific research and industrial applications.