Innovation in Biodegradable Composites: Wheat Flour and Hermetia illucens Larvae Flour Biocomposites Enhanced with Cellulose Nanocrystals

Abstract

The development of biocomposites derived from wheat flour and Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly) larvae flour presents a viable and sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics, which contribute significantly to environmental degradation. The incorporation of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) is anticipated to enhance the functional properties of these materials, particularly for food packaging applications. The objective of this study was to develop and characterise biodegradable composites formulated from wheat and larvae flours, and to evaluate the effect of CNC addition on their physicochemical, mechanical, and structural properties. The biocomposites were produced using compression moulding and subsequently subjected to comprehensive characterisation. The results indicated that the addition of CNCs markedly improved the optical, barrier, and mechanical properties of the composites. These improvements render the materials suitable for packaging systems requiring moisture retention and reduced permeability to water vapour. From a mechanical perspective, composites incorporating CNCs exhibited increased tensile strength and stiffness, although a reduction in elongation at break was observed when compared to those prepared solely with larvae flour (LF). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses revealed that higher concentrations of larvae flour yielded composites with fewer surface fractures and reduced porosity. In conclusion, the utilisation of wheat and insect larvae flours, in combination with cellulose nanocrystals, represents an innovative and environmentally responsible approach for the development of biodegradable composites suitable for eco-friendly food packaging applications.