Characterization of cellulose acetate film incorporated with cellulose nanocrystals and fruit salad aroma

Abstract

Cellulose acetate (AC) is a hydrophobic, biodegradable polymer derived from cellulose. Biopolymers generally present inferior performances in relation to polymers obtained from petroleum. Thus, cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) have been used as reinforcement, to improve their properties. Currently, active packaging with emitter systems, which incorporate substances into the packaging material and these are gradually transferred to the food, such as flavoring, has been requested and extensively studied. Thus, the objective of this work was to characterize an AC film with CNC and fruit salad aroma (ASF) in relation to thickness, color, transmittance and opacity, to establish the necessary requirements for this film, aiming at a future application. To evaluate the data, analysis of variance was performed, followed by the t-Student test (p<0.01). The thickness results show that the technique and the conditions used provided the obtaining of thin films. The addition of CNC and aroma did not modify the thickness when compared to the control film, but influenced the opacity of the film, leading to an increase in this characteristic and providing a greater barrier to light transmission. The color parameter L* indicates obtaining clear films. Negative a* values indicate a staining closer to the green region and positive b* values show a tendency towards yellow color. The AC film with CNC and ASF proved to be favorable for a future application in fruit salad.