Development of cost-effective transparent bionanocomposite films based on pullulan and cellulose nanofibers for packaging application

In recent years, the preparation of bio-based edible films for packaging material is increasing due to its easy availability, low cost, renewability and biodegradability. The present work aims to develop pullulan and cellulose nanofibers based novel bionanocomposite films with improved barrier and mechanical properties by solution casting method. The prepared films were characterized for morphology, crystalline structure, chemical interaction, optical properties, hydrophilicity, barrier properties, thermal stability and mechanical properties. Incorporation of cellulose nanofibers increases the tensile strength of the bionanocomposite film up to 60% than the pristine pullulan film. Barrier properties (water vapor transmission rate and oxygen transmission rate of bionanocomposite films were 32 and 38%, respectively lower when compared to the pristine pullulan film). Additionally, these bionanocomposite films were homogeneous, transparent, and had good thermal stability. Moreover, these bionanocomposite films were prepared entirely from natural resources and could be used as an eco-friendly edible film for packaging.