Influence of silylated nano cellulose reinforcement on the mechanical, water resistance, thermal, morphological and antibacterial properties of soy protein isolate (SPI)-based composite films

The aim of this research work is to improve the mechanical and water-resistance properties of soy protein isolate (SPI) biofilm. In this work, 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) coupling-agent modified nanocellulose was introduced into the SPI matrix in the presence of citric acid cross-linker. The presence of amino groups in APTES facilitated the formation of -cross-linked structures with soy protein. The incorporation of a citric acid cross -linker made the cross-linking process more productive, and the surface smoothness of the film was confirmed by a Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM). From the study of the mechanical and thermal properties and water resistance of the film, it was confirmed that the results were highly satisfactory for the modified nanocellulose-incorporated film compared to the non-modified one. Additionally, coating of citral essential oil onto SPI nanocomposite film displayed antimicrobial properties due to the presence of various phenolic groups in the citral oil. The Tensile Strength and Young's Modulus of silane-modified nanocellulose containing film were enhanced by-119 % and -112 %, respectively on incorporation of 1 % APTES-modified nanocellulose. Consequently, this work is expected to offer an effective way for silylated nano-cellulose reinforcing soy protein isolate (SPI)-based bio nanocomposite films for packaging applications. As an example, we have demonstrated one of the applications as wrapping films for packing black grapes.

Automated summary

The aim of this research is to enhance the mechanical and water-resistance properties of soy protein isolate (SPI) biofilm. Modified nanocellulose with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) was added to the SPI matrix with citric acid cross-linker. The results showed that the modified nanocellulose-incorporated film had better mechanical and thermal properties, as well as improved water resistance compared to the non-modified film. Additionally, the coating of citral essential oil onto the SPI nanocomposite film displayed antimicrobial properties.