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Abstract.

One of the biggest challenges in implementing smart packaging materials is the development of bio-sensing active materials that can leverage their electrical, thermal and other functional properties. The goal of this work is to prepare a nanocomposite of biochar nanoparticle/polylactic acid (BCNP/PLA) and use it to develop BCNP/PLA-based biosensor for smart food packaging. The developed BCNP/PLA nanocomposite were prepared by solvent casting method, while PLA content in the nanocomposite was varied from 15% to 50% (w/w) and BCNP was varied between 85% and 50%. Electrical conductivity of the BCNP/PLA nanocomposite was measured using a potentiostat. Results showed current measured by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential plus voltammetry (DPV) increased from 5 to 22 mA and 1.9 to 12 mA respectively as BCNP contents in BCNP/PLA nanocomposite increased from 50% to 85%. The thermal properties of this nanocomposite prepared were confirmed by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Results showed a weight loss of about 80 % on heating between 200-400 °C. The results indicate that BCNP was effectively activated at 800 °C and is a potential for smart food packaging applications.