Biodegradable composite films with antibacterial properties for packaging applications

Presentation by Dr Rajkamal Balu (RMIT University)

Abstract

The need for ending non-degradable plastic waste has prompted significant interest in developing a new family of biodegradable composite materials for sustainable packaging applications. In this regard, this presentation focuses on the development and optimisation of new biodegradable composite films comprising bio-based plastics – poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), and polylactic acid (PLA) – and inorganic antibacterial agent – tetrapod shaped zinc oxide (t-ZnO) microparticles. The developed composite films can find potential application in antibacterial food packaging.