Polymer Composites as Packaging Materials

This chapter aims to obtain a better understanding of the role of polymer nanocomposites in different packaging applications such as food packaging, electronic packaging, and industrial packaging. Dispersion of nanoparticles (NPs) in the packaging materials improves the properties like mechanical strength and modulus, water resistance, gas permeability, etc. In addition, bioactive agents in the packaging materials impart interesting smart phenomena like antimicrobial, and antifouling properties. Generally, petroleum fuel-based thermoplastic polymers are conventionally used in primary and secondary packaging. Some of the widely used polymeric packaging materials consist of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS). However, as the consequence of the harmful impacts of fossil fuel-based packaging materials on humans, animals, and the environment has become understandable, more and more emphasis has been shifted to biopolymers (cellulose, protein, marine prokaryotes, etc.) and their nanocomposites. Bio-based or bio-originated polymers or biopolymers are eco-friendly, non-hazardous to living beings as well as to the environment, biodegradable, abundant, and a better alternative to depletable fossil fuel-based materials. Biopolymer-based nanocomposites advocate all desirable aspects of a packaging material to be sustainable, reliable, and environmentally friendly. In addition, the nature-inspired active and intelligent/smart packaging materials are economical and their contribution to reviving the circular economy is prominent. 

Keywords: Biopolymer, Nanocomposite, Polymer, Packaging.