Construction of novel ammonia-sensitive polyvinyl alcohol-based films containing nano Co-ATMP for smart packaging application

Currently, there is a rising need for smart packaging materials that can be applied for the real-time visual monitoring of food freshness. In this work, new Co-based MOF (Co-ATMP) nanocrystals with ammonia-sensitivity function were prepared and then blended with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix to construct smart active packaging materials. The effect of Co-ATMP nanofiller upon structure, physical, and functional performances of the PVA films were then analyzed in detail. Results demonstrate that nano Co-ATMP fillers are distributed well within the PVA matrix through the formation of new hydrogen-bonding interaction, which make an obvious increase in the ductility, moisture permeability, and UV-blocking ability of the PVA film. Besides, the prepared PVA/Co-ATMP blend films present high antibacterial activity, ammonia-sensitivity as well as color stability. Ultimately, the PVA/Co-ATMP blend films were successfully employed for indicating the deterioration of shrimp through noticeable color variations. Therefore, the PVA/Co-ATMP blend films have great potential for utilization in smart active packaging area.