Preparation of PBAT/PLA/CaCO3 Composite Films for Postharvest Preservation of Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.)

ABSTRACT Biodegradable PBAT/PLA/CaCO 3 films were fabricated via blown film extrusion and characterised for morphology, optical, mechanical, thermal and barrier properties. The apricot ( Prunus armeniaca L.), serving as a model fruit, was employed to evaluate the films performance in three different thicknesses (15.1 ± 1.8 μm, 49.3 ± 5.7 μm, 97.3 ± 8.8 μm). Unpackaged apricots were served as the control group. Results indicated that PBAT/PLA/CaCO 3 films effectively delayed fruit colour changes and maintained better fruit quality. In addition, PBAT/PLA/CaCO 3 films inhibited the respiration rate and the ethylene production, further contributing to firmness maintenance and reduced weight loss. The fruit flavour was also improved, as indicated by higher soluble solid content, titratable acidity, E‐nose and E‐tongue values, especially for apricot packaged with a thicker PBAT/PLA/CaCO 3 film. This study demonstrated the potential of PBAT/PLA/CaCO 3 as an eco‐friendly alternative to petroleum‐based PE films for fresh produce packaging.