Biodegradable Food Packaging Films Using a Combination of Hemicellulose and Cellulose Derivatives

This study aims to develop biodegradable films by combining hemicellulose B (HB) with methylcellulose (MC) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) at two mass ratios, HB/MC 90/10 and HB/CMC 60/40. The effect of plasticizers, glycerol (GLY) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), on these films’ mechanical and physicochemical properties was also investigated. Results showed that the film thickness increased with the addition of GLY and PEG. Moisture content was lower in plasticized films, possibly contributing to better storage. Plasticizers also induced more pronounced color changes, intensifying the lightness and yellowness. Physical attributes such as peel ability, foldability, and transparency were also noticeably improved, particularly in films with higher GLY and PEG concentrations. Additionally, plasticizers enhanced the mechanical properties more significantly in the HB/CMC films, as evidenced by improved tensile stress, elongation at break, elastic modulus, and toughness. However, oxygen and water vapor permeabilities, two of the most critical factors in food packaging, were reduced in the HB/MC films with plasticizers compared to the HB/CMC counterparts. The findings of this study bear significant implications for developing sustainable packaging solutions using hemicellulose B isolated from agricultural material processing waste. These biopolymer-based films, in conjunction with biobased plasticizers, such as glycerol biopolymer, can help curtail our reliance on conventional plastics and alleviate the environmental impact of plastic waste.