Use of modified polycaprolactone polymer in food packaging applications: a review

Abstract

Objective: Plastic production in the world is constantly increasing and plastics have been degraded in nature for many years. This situation turns into a major environmental disaster that people and living organisms will encounter. In addition, packaging films that can be applied to foods safely and extend the shelf life of foods with their functional properties are needed. Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a biodegradable polymer produced by synthetic processes and has been frequently investigated in food packaging studies in recent years. Due to its flexibility, biocompatibility and thermoplasticity, the use of PCL and its copolymers in packaging film applications is becoming widespread. Disadvantages such as low mechanical and thermal resistance can be eliminated by adding fillers, mixing with other polymers or using multi-layers. This study aims to compile recent studies on the use of PCL polymer modified by various methods as food packaging. Conclusion: In the literature, there are many interesting studies on the making composite of PCL with different methods. Nanoclays to improve mechanical and gas barrier properties; nanometals and plant materials to impart antimicrobial properties; innovative additives such as oxygen scavengers, photosynthesizing agents, antimicrobial peptides are used in the modification of PCL. In this review, it was revealed that the modifications contribute to PCL polymer in terms of stiffness and gas barrier properties and add antimicrobial and antioxidant character to the polymer.