Surface Modification of Poly(lactic acid) Film via Cold Plasma Assisted Grafting of Fumaric and Ascorbic Acid

Abstract

Plant-based materials have found their application in the packaging with a yearly growing production rate. These naturally biodegradable polymers are obtained from renewable and sustainable natural resources with reduced environmental impact and affordable cost. These materials have found their utilization in fully-renewable plant-based packaging products, such as Tetra Pak®-like containers, by replacing commonly-used polyethylene as the polymer component. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is one of the representative plant-based polymers because of its eco-friendliness and excellent chemical and mechanical properties. In this work, a PLA surface was modified by various food additives, namely ascorbic acid (ASA) and fumaric acid (FA), using plasma-initiated grafting reactions in order to improve the surface and adhesion properties of PLA. Various analytical and microscopic techniques were employed to prove the grafting process. Moreover, the improved adhesion of the modified PLA foil to aluminum (Al) foil in a laminate configuration was proven by peel resistance measurements. The peel resistance of modified PLA increased by 74% and 184% for samples modified by ASA and FA, respectively, compared with untreated PLA.

Carboxymethylated and Sulfated Furcellaran from Furcellaria lumbricalis and Its Immobilization on PLA Scaffolds

“…Plasmating the surface changed the topographic properties, wettability, and increase surface area, resulting in more favorable adsorption of furcellaran derivated due to mechanical interlocking [ 21 ]. This phenomena is in a good agreement with other studies [ 18 , 19 ]. Additionally, a three-dimensional model defined by geometry, which closely mimics the extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironment is crucial for cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, mechano-responses, and cell survival [ 57 ].…”

“…Numerous techniques for surface functionalization have been employed to augment the bioactivity of PLA scaffolds. These include physical methods like plasma treatment, chemical processes such as aminolysis, and biological approaches like the coating and immobilization of biologically active molecules [ 17 , 18 , 19 ]. In comparison to alternative methods, plasma technology offers distinct advantages, such as the utilization of non-toxic chemicals, processing devoid of heat, and modification without altering the bulk properties.…”

Effects of electrospun fibers containing ascorbic acid on oxidative stress reduction for cardiac tissue engineering

“…Similarly, other methods of incorporating AA into biocompatible polymers may be more suitable. Other previously published methods include chemical modification of polyurethanes 80,87,88 and surface modification via plasma‐assisted grafting 89,90 . With relevance to the present study, Zhao et al compared the mechanical properties and release rates of PCL scaffolds containing an AA derivative fabricated via emulsion, coaxial, and blend electrospinning 25 .…”

“…Other previously published methods include chemical modification of polyurethanes 80,87,88 and surface modification via plasmaassisted grafting. 89,90 With relevance to the present study, Zhao et al compared the mechanical properties and release rates of PCL scaffolds containing an AA derivative fabricated via emulsion, coaxial, and blend electrospin-In fibers performed of the within 24 h. Yet, release rates of AA and its derivatives encapsulated within the core of coaxial fibers within literature are varied. Cumulative release of magnesium L-AA 2 phosphate only reached 40% after 7 days within PCL and gelatin fibers, 13 while blended chitosan and poly(vinyl alcohol) fibers released 74% of AA within 30 h. 86 This highlights the flexibility of electrospun fibers in tailoring release rate, depending on the fiber morphology and composition, material or material blends used, and overall concentrations of drugs loaded within the fibers.…”

Colloidal Solutions as Advanced Coatings for Active Packaging Development: Focus on PLA Systems

“…Abdulkareem et al modified the PLA surface by plasma treatment and grafting ascorbic acid and fumaric acid. The resulting film was found to be antiviral, and suitable for food packaging [ 147 ]. The development of antimicrobial PLA films with improved physical and mechanical properties and antimicrobial activity remains a challenge, due to the inherent brittleness and hydrophobicity of this polymer.…”