Development and characterization of lotus-leaf-inspired bionic antibacterial adhesion film through beeswax

Inspired by the water resistance and antibacterial adhesion of lotus leaves, an eco-friendly bionic film was prepared using polyvinyl alcohol/chitosan biomass composite film as the substrate and beeswax as the waxy layer. The effects of different spray components on the physicochemical and bacterial adhesion properties of the film were studied. The analysis results showed that the presence of beeswax and SiO2 improved the UV barrier, WVP, and thermal properties. The FTIR spectroscopy and SEM results showed that the incorporation of beeswax and SiO2 formed a fine bionic structure on and intermolecular hydrogen bonds with the surface of the film. Additionally, the biomimetic membrane exhibits appreciable superhydrophobicity (contact angle > 150°) and antibacterial adhesion. Therefore, the prepared film shows significant physicochemical properties and antibacterial adhesion and is a suitable antibacterial adhesive packaging material that extends the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.