Strengthening eco-friendly packaging from pectin by filling with poly(ε-caprolactone) nanoparticles and tailoring the degree of methyl-esterification

Author(s)

Lorevice, Marcos Vinicius ; Baccarin, Graziela Solferini ; Souza, Juliana Reghine ; Claro, Pedro Ivo Cunha ; de Moura, Marcia Regina ; Otoni, Caio Gomide ; Mattoso, Luiz Henrique Capparelli

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: MATERIALS ADVANCES; v. 5, n. 15, p. 9-pg., 2024-06-24.

Abstract

In light of the environmental damage caused by conventional polymers and the challenge of making polysaccharides competitive in food packaging, there is a growing investment in the development of nanoparticles to enhance their physicochemical properties. Further advancing this concept, we have produced poly(epsilon-caprolactone) nanoparticles (PCLNPs) via solvent displacement and incorporated them into low- and high-methoxyl pectin films by solvent casting. The PCLNPs display a quasi-spherical morphology with a uniform size (ca. 300 nm), exhibiting excellent colloidal stability due to their hydrophobic PCL core and a hydrophilic Tween 80 surface. PCLNPs moderately improved the thermal stability (reaching ca. 250 degrees C) and preserved the water vapor barrier (<2 g mm k(-1) Pa-1 h(-1) m(-2)) of pectin-based films, while providing significant flexibility and achieving a 3.5-fold increase in tensile strength (75 MPa) compared to neat pectin films due to favorable matrix/filler compatibility. Therefore, our findings contribute to the avenue paved for nanocomposites based on polysaccharides to serve as alternatives to nonbiodegradable and/or nonrenewable packaging, reducing environmental impact. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 21/12071-6 - Tailoring colloids through supramolecular interactions: from fundamentals to applications
• Grantee: Watson Loh
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 12/24362-6 - Development of nanocomposite films containing vegetables puree for use as edible packaging.
• Grantee: Marcos Vinicius Lorevice
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master