Research Article: Development of Zein/Fucoidan/Tio₂ nanocomposite films from Sargassum tenerrimum for food packaging

This study aimed to create a novel biodegradable film by incorporating biosynthesized titanium dioxide (TiO۲) nanoparticles into a zein/fucoidan matrix for food packaging applications. TiO₂ nanoparticles were synthesized using Sargassum tenerrimum extract and confirmed using UV-Vis spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH assay, showing an IC₅₀ value of ۰.۳۴۷ mg/mL. The prepared films were evaluated for thickness, solubility, oxygen permeability, water vapor permeability, and mechanical properties. Zein films exhibited the highest values for solubility, elongation at break, oxygen permeability, and tensile strength, whereas the lowest values were recorded for the Zein + ۵% Fucoidan + ۲.۵% TiO₂ nanocomposite (p≤۰.۰۵). FTIR, DSC, and XRD results confirmed interplays between TiO₂ nanoparticles and the carbonyl and carboxyl functional groups within the nanocomposite matrix. The study acknowledges that further investigations are needed to assess long-term storage stability and performance in real food systems. This study introduces a novel bioactive nanocomposite film with enhanced barrier and mechanical properties, distinguishing it from conventional biodegradable films. The Zein + ۵% Fucoidan + ۲.۵% TiO₂ nanocomposite was identified to have the optimal formulation, demonstrating superior performance and having potential for application in food preservation.

Keywords:

Titanium dioxide , Sargassum tenerrimum , Nanocomposite , Fucoidan