Barrier and antimicrobial properties of PVA films incorporated with ZnO nanoparticles and stearic acid

Abstract

The barrier properties of a polymer film is very important for application as packaging material. Moreover, packaging materials with antimicrobial properties give advantages to prolong the shelf life of perishable foodstuff. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a water-soluble polymer, which has good oxygen barrier properties, but this depends on the humidity, as PVA is sensitive to moisture. The purpose of this study was to assess the characterization of bio-based nanocomposite films of PVA with the addition of ZnO nanoparticles and stearic acid. Bionanocomposite films were prepared by PVA dissolving in distilled and a range of ZnO nanoparticle formulations (and/or stearic acid) was added. Response Surface Methodology data analysis showed all response models qualified as good models with adequate presision (greater than 4). Result revealed that the addition of ZnO nanoparticles and/or stearic acid can reduce the water vapor transmission rate of the resulting film, lower light transmission, as well as results in antimicrobial properties.