Bio-composite Films Based on Alginate and Rice Husk Tar Microparticles Loaded with Eugenol for Active Packaging

Abstract

This work focused on the valorization of tar derived from rice husk pyrolysis as a precursor of matrices for the encapsulation of active principles. In this regard, the development of novel films based on alginate and eugenol-loaded tar microparticles with suitable mechanical properties and antibacterial activity was studied. Tar microparticles loaded with eugenol were incorporated into sodium alginate films and the effect on the mechanical, thermal and humidity resistance properties were determined, as well as the antimicrobial activity. Films with different crosslinking degrees were also prepared using CaCl 2 , and the eugenol controlled release profiles were evaluated. Crosslinked films exhibited improved mechanical and humidity resistance properties, as well as a lower release rate of eugenol in water. The antimicrobial studies showed that eugenol-loaded films present a higher antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Alginate/eugenol-loaded tar microparticles composites showed an enhancement of antibacterial properties and suitable physical characteristics to be used in active packaging applications.

Preparation of PET‐EG‐β‐CD mat for the preservation of chilled pork

“…The release behaviour of the PET‐EG‐ β ‐CD mats was evaluated according to the previous study in the food simulation system (10% ethanol, 50% ethanol and n‐hexane). 0.3 g antimicrobial mat samples (3.5 × 2.5 cm) were immersed in 100 mL of food simulation solutions with stirring at 25 °C (Taverna & Busatto, 2022). During the experiment, aliquots (10 mL) of food simulation were taken at set time intervals, measured by ultraviolet and visible spectrophotometry and then returned into the release medium.…”

Characterization of Pyrolytic Tars Derived from Different Biomasses

“…In the second application, the polymeric characteristics, composition, density and viscosity of tars could make them possible precursors of matrices to encapsulate active principles. Taverna et al [121] studied new films based on tar microparticles loaded with sodium alginate and eugenol, and their mechanical properties and antibacterial activity were adequate. They also prepared films with different reticulation degrees using CaCl 2 and assessed the controlled release of eugenol.…”

Biodegradable biopolymers for active packaging: demand, development and directions

“…Recently, rice husk tar was obtained by the pyrolysis of rice husk biomass using a pilot scale reactor, displaying the capability of scaling up this technology. 88 However, the scale-up capacity of the rice husk based active packaging could be limited by the use of dichloromethane to dissolve the tar for microparticle synthesis and energy-intensive pyrolysis extraction methods.…”

“…Recently, the encapsulation of eugenol within rice husk tar microparticles has been reported. 88 The group described bio-composite films based on alginate containing the rice-husk microparticles with suitable properties for food-packaging applications. Recently, rice husk tar was obtained by the pyrolysis of rice husk biomass using a pilot scale reactor, displaying the capability of scaling up this technology.…”