Multifunctional Properties of PBAT with Hemp (Cannabis sativa) Micronised Fibres for Food Packaging: Cast Films and Coated Paper

Abstract

Hemp (Cannabis sativa) stalk fibres from industry residues were incorporated into polybutylene adipate terephthalate, a synthetic biodegradable polyester, to produce films and paper coatings. The lignocellulosic components and the chemical composition of the fibres were analysed, and the results highlight the bioactivity due to cannabinoids, alkanoids, and lignin, among others, making the fibres attractive for active food packaging. The incorporation, without chemical modification, of 2% (w/w) hemp in the PBAT matrix increased the water vapour permeability of PBAT to around 22%. The impact on mechanical properties was determined, and the results show that the PBAT/hemp film is less stretchable but stronger than the pure PBAT film. The incorporation of hemp enhanced significantly the compostability of PBAT. The PBAT/hemp films and paper coatings composted two times faster than those using pure PBAT.

Enhanced Biodegradation Rate of Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) Composites Using Reed Fiber

“…Lamsaf et al discovered that the incorporation of hemp fiber into PBAT greatly improved the compostability of PBAT. The composting rate of the hemp fiber/PBAT blend was found to be twice as fast as that of neat PBAT [16]. Additionally, Zeng et al confirmed the favorable biodegradability of hemp fiber/PBAT composites through soil burial degradation tests.…”

“…In recent years, there has been a rapid development in the research of biodegradable materials, leading to increased attention on biodegradable plastics due to their excellent biodegradability. They have already proven their value in many fields and Polymers 2024, 16, 411 2 of 15 have become one of the most effective ways to reduce "white pollution", protect ecological balance, and achieve sustainable development.…”

Eco-Friendly Poly (Butylene Adipate-co-Terephthalate) Coated Bi-Layered Films: An Approach to Enhance Mechanical and Barrier Properties

“…On the other hand, PBAT has limited applications, high production costs, and a low crystallization rate [22], which could have been considered additional factors in choosing PBAT for paper coating. There are some things to reflect on, including barrier characteristics [3], regulatory compliance, biodegradability [23,24], suitability with paper recycling, market demand, and perception [25][26][27][28]. PBAT is a biodegradable plastic with good hydrophobic processing characteristics and notable flexibility.…”

“…The tensile strength of PBAT materials has been increased with its application. It is of the utmost importance to use the appropriate materials and processing aids while modifying a PBAT in an attempt to enhance its overall performance and reduce its cost of usage [24,29].…”