Development of antimicrobial LDPE/Cu nanocomposite food packaging film for extended shelf life of peda

Low density polyethylene / copper nanocomposites with strong antimicrobial activity and barrier properties were successfully prepared for active food packaging which showed of extended shelf life of Peda (Indian sweet dairy product). Copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs) were incorporated from 0.5 wt.% to 3.0 wt.% into a low-density polyethylene (LDPE) matrix by using lab scale doctor blade film applicator to prepare 120 mu m thin food packaging films. The effect of different weight percent loadings of Cu NPs on to morphology, mechanical properties of LDPE/Cu nanocomposite films was examined. It was found that Cu-NPS uniformly dispersed into a LDPE matrix and provided improved mechanical properties. There was increment in mechanical properties with decrement in water vapour permeability (WVP) with increase in Cu-NPs amount. LDPE/Cu nanocomposites film also shows superior antimicrobial effect averse to gram +ve and gram -ve food deteriorating microorganisms.