Development of active packaging: Integrating gallic and ascorbic acids into polylactic acid-microcrystalline cellulose (PLA-MCC) biodegradable films

Abstract

This study aimed to develop active packaging based on biodegradable polylactic acid-microcrystalline cellulose (PLA-MCC) films incorporating gallic and ascorbic acids with potential oxygen-scavenging activity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to combine these compounds as dual additives at various ratios: AG1 (5% GA + 2.5% AA), AG2 (3.75% GA + 3.75% AA), and AG3 (2.5% GA + 5% AA) within a PLA-MCC matrix, significantly affecting structure and mechanical performance. Among the active formulations, AG3 showed the most homogeneous structure, surpassed only by the control, while FTIR confirmed hydrogen bonding without new chemical bonds. Oxygen permeability ranged from 8.30 to 10.70 × 10⁻⁸ g·m⁻¹·s⁻¹, about one order of magnitude higher than LDPE/HDPE but a substantial improvement over neat PLA, reflecting bioplastic trade-offs with no significant differences among formulations. AG1 achieved the highest biodegradation rate (48.92%) over 10 weeks due to structural disruption, while tensile strength increased significantly (5.62–9.70 MPa) with elongation remaining unaffected. The composite exhibited favorable mechanical strength and biodegradation behavior varying with the gallic-to-ascorbic acid ratio, while oxygen barrier performance requires analysis to confirm scavenging potential. This formulation shows promise as eco-friendly packaging for oxygen-sensitive foods, aligning with SDGs 1, 12, and 13.

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