Multifunctional composite polyvinyl alcohol film reinforced with polymeric ionic liquid-modified cellulose nanocrystals for multimodal bacteriostatic food packaging

composite films with multimodal antibacterial activity, mechanical reinforcement, and enhanced water resistance. The optimized film exhibited mechanical strength (tensile strength 11.92 ± 0.21 MPa and elongation at break 202.1 ± 2.7 %), stiffness (66.40 ± 0.71 MPa), water resistance (water contact angle 98.8 ± 3.0°), and reduced oxygen and water vapor permeability, along with >99 % antibacterial efficacy against E. coli and S. aureus and > 90 % cytocompatibility. Preservation tests on cherry tomatoes showed significantly inhibited microbial growth, reduced weight loss, and sustained texture and acidity over 14 days, demonstrating effectively extended shelf life. This approach offers a promising strategy for sustainable, high-performance food packaging materials.