Development and Characterization of Antimicrobial Polymer Composites for Food Packaging Applications

Year : 2025 | Volume : 13 | Special Issue 05 | Page : 86 93
    By

    Prasannajeet P Nikam,

  1. Assistant Professor, Krishna College of Physiotherapy, Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University, Karad, Maharshtra, India

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable and antimicrobial food packaging materials has led to extensive research in polymer-based composites. This study focuses on developing a polyethylene terephthalate-ethylene vinyl acetate (PET-EVA) composite reinforced with metal oxide nanoparticles (MONs), including Cu₂O, ZnO, and MgO₂. These nanoparticles were selected for their antimicrobial properties and ability to enhance the functional characteristics of the composite. Structural, chemical, mechanical, and barrier properties were extensively evaluated to determine the efficacy of these composites in improving food safety and extending shelf life. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of MONs into the polymer matrix, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging demonstrated uniform nanoparticle dispersion, which is crucial for maintaining the composite’s mechanical integrity. Among the developed materials, PET-EVA-Cu₂O exhibited the highest antimicrobial efficacy, effectively inhibiting bacterial growth, and also showed superior UV barrier properties, which can further contribute to reducing food spoilage. Additionally, mechanical testing revealed that MON incorporation enhanced the tensile strength and flexibility of the composite, making it suitable for practical food packaging applications. The findings highlight the potential of PET-EVA-MON composites as active packaging materials with antimicrobial and protective functionalities. Future research will focus on assessing the recyclability and biodegradability of these composites to enhance their sustainability, addressing environmental concerns associated with synthetic polymers. Moreover, optimization of MON concentrations and further exploration of their synergistic effects could lead to improved performance and broader applications in food packaging industries.

Keywords: Antimicrobial polymer composites, PET-EVA, barrier properties, recyclability, biodegradability

[This article belongs to Special Issue under section in Journal of Polymer and Composites (jopc)]

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How to cite this article:
Prasannajeet P Nikam. Development and Characterization of Antimicrobial Polymer Composites for Food Packaging Applications. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2025; 13(05):86-93.
How to cite this URL:
Prasannajeet P Nikam. Development and Characterization of Antimicrobial Polymer Composites for Food Packaging Applications. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2025; 13(05):86-93. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2025/view=214441


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Special Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 13
Special Issue 05
Received 28/02/2025
Accepted 09/05/2025
Published 23/06/2025
Publication Time 115 Days
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