PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF CHITOSAN NANOPARTICLES-LOADED FISH GELATIN-BASED EDIBLE FILMS

Bio-based nanocomposite films were obtained from fish gelatin (FG) and different amounts of chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) (0, 2, 6 and 8% w/w) with diameters ranging from 40 to 80 nm. The influence of nanoparticles on the surface morphology, physicochemical properties, crystalline structure and thermal stability of FG was investigated. The surface morphology assay showed a considerable increase in roughness parameters by incorporating the nanoparticles in FG matrix. Contact angle measurements ranged from about 45C to 60-97C as filler concentration increased, indicating that reinforced films had higher superficial hydrophobicity than neat FG ones. The X-ray diffraction results also suggested a higher crystallinity in FG matrix due to CSNPs nucleating effect. The glass transition of the nanocomposites was shifted to lower temperatures with respect to the pure FG. Thermal stability tended to increase in accordance with CSNPs content, in which the highest shift of degradation temperature was observed at 6% (w/w) loading content. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS In recent years, bio-based polymers have attracted more and more attention due to growing environmental concern and decreasing reserve of fossil fuel. This recent evolution encourages researchers and industries to develop novel materials labeled as environment friendly. This study investigates the preparation and characterization of eco-friendly fish gelatin-based composite reinforced with chitosan nanoparticles, as a substitution of plastic packaging materials with the goal of decreasing environmental pollution.