Development of packaging based on PLA/POE/SeNPs nanocomposites by blown film extrusion method: Physicochemical, structural, morphological and antioxidant properties

The aim of the current study was to prepare a novel and biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) film by the addition of different concentrations of polyolefin elastomer (POE; 10, 20 and 30 wt%), selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs; 1.5 wt%) and triethyl citrate (TEC) as plasticizer in order to modify physical and mechanical properties of the film. The SeNP with mean particle diameter of 170 nm was successfully prepared by using ascorbic acid and polyvinyl alcohol as the reducing and binding agent. The FT-IR results showed new chemical interactions among PLA matrix and incorporated POE and SeNPs. Tensile strength and Young’s Modulus of the nanocomposite films decreased by adding SeNPs and POE, whereas the elongation at break of the films significantly increased (p < 0.05). DSC analysis indicated that the crystallinity and melting temperature of PLA matrix were reduced by incorporation of SeNPs and POE. Swelling of nanocomposite films were significantly higher than that of neat PLA (p < 0.05). Adding SeNPs and POE, caused a notable reduction in water vapor permeability (WVP) of nanocomposite films (by 77% in the sample with 20% POE). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirmed the homogenous, uniform, and compact structure of the nanocomposites at 10% POE. Moreover, the anti-oxidant activity increased significantly with the incorporation of POE. Overall, the developed PLA/POE/SeNPs composite films can potentially be used for food packaging with enhanced barrier and mechanical properties.