Development of Antimicrobial Film using Bio-nanocomposite

Abstract.With increasing concern over non biodegradability of plastic packaging films, scientists are seeking for an alternative of plastic films. Bio-nanocomposites sound promising in this regard as nanoparticles may impart mechanical strength and other functional properties to film and for achieving this, chitosan nanoparticles were incorporated in the gelatin film to improve mechanical and barrier properties and to impart antimicrobial activities. Chitosan nano particles were prepared with ionic gelation method using Sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP). Size, dispersion and texture of nano particles were studied using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Chitosan nanoparticles were dispersed in gelatin film at concentrations of 0%, 3%, 6% and 9% (w/w) of gelatin mass and found to significantly enhance the mechanical, barrier properties however addition of nanoparticles made the film more brittle. At 9% concentration of nanoparticles were suspected to be agglomerated. Antimicrobial activities were tested against S. aureus and film found to show excellent antimicrobial activities against gram positive species.