Authors : Velmurugan R.; Chandru R.; Vinoth S.; Dr. Chandran Masi; Iswarya

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 6 - June

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/752bheat

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/3k7mw4xt

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jun506

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : The growing demand for sustainable packaging materials has encouraged the development of biodegradable films using natural biopolymers and nanoparticles. In this study, an algae-based biodegradable film incorporated with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) was developed for food packaging applications. Algae were selected as the biopolymer matrix due to their biodegradable and polysaccharide-rich nature, while ZnONPs were incorporated to improve antimicrobial and functional properties. The synthesized nanoparticles and developed film were characterized using different analytical techniques. UV–Visible spectroscopy confirmed nanoparticle formation with an absorption peak at 335 nm. SEM analysis revealed nanoparticle sizes ranging from 55–90 nm. FTIR analysis identified functional groups such as alcohols, alkanes, amides, and metal oxides, indicating successful interaction between the algae matrix and ZnONPs. The film showed neutral pH and a moisture content of 6.8%. Biodegradability studies demonstrated 72–78% degradation within 28 days. The film exhibited effective antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp., and Enterococcus faecalis, along with antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus. MIC results confirmed strong microbial inhibition at concentrations of 100–150 µg/ml. Overall, the developed ZnONPs-enhanced algae film shows potential as an eco-friendly antimicrobial packaging material for food applications.

Keywords : Biodegradable Film, Algae-Based Packaging, Zinc Nanoparticles, Antimicrobial Properties, Food Preservation.

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