Biodegradable films reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals and natural extracts for food packing applications

Abstract

In this work, numerous biodegradable polymers were used for the development of films reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and different natural extracts in order to evaluate their potential for food packaging applications. Different CNC concentrations (0.1, 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 % (w/v)) and several natural extracts such as acacia, basil and tarragon were evaluated. Microscopy analysis shows the incorporation and uniform dispersion of CNC into chitosan matrix. The samples were characterized using FESEM, ATR-FTIR, XRD and TGA techniques. Additionally, the mechanical, barrier and antibacterial properties were also evaluated.