Polypropylene/talc nanocomposites films as low-cost barrier materials for food packaging

Abstract

Over the last few decades, materials based on polymers and silicate minerals are one of the most promising nanocomposites, having suitable characteristics and properties which could be satisfactorily used in packaging development. However, the processing of these materials to obtain films for flexible packaging is a challenge and the key to their success. In this work, polypropylene/talc nanocomposite films up to 5% w/w of talc were obtained by blown-extrusion. A detailed analysis of structure and final properties of films were performed, focusing mainly on their application on food packaging. Tensile tests, tear resistance and thermo-sealing capacity were determined. Important issues in packaging field, as color, UV-barrier capacity and gas permeability were examined. Packaging bags from nanocomposites films were obtained by thermo-sealing to package and storage several fruits under controlled temperature and relative humidity to demonstrate the feasibility of using them in food packaging.