Investigation of the potential use of halloysite nanotube doped chitosan films for food packaging

Abstract

Polymer-based food packaging is widely used and causes serious environmental problems due to the chemical ingredients. Therefore, these packages should be replaced by biodegradable alternatives in order to prevent environmental pollution. Many biodegradable polymers are used in food packaging. Among them, chitosan is gaining attention since it is bio-sourced and biodegradable. In this study, the usability of chitosan films as physical and chemical tests investigated food packaging. In order to improve the packaging properties of the films, halloysite nanotube was used as filler with a concentration range of 1-4 wt.%. It was observed that the halloysite significantly increased the opacity, mechanical strength, water resistance, and antioxidant properties of the films.