Dodecyl gallate as a pro-ecological antioxidant for food packing materials

Electrochemical oxidation of dodecyl gallate (lauryl gallate), the main monomer flavanol found in green tea, was investigated on platinum electrodes using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse (DPV) methods. The rate constant, electron transfer coefficient and diffusion coefficients were determined for dodecyl gallate electrochemical oxidation. The oxidation mechanism proceeds in sequential steps related to the hydroxyl groups in the aromatic ring of dodecyl gallate. The confirmed antioxidant activity of lauryl gallate justified its use in polymers, for instance, in an environment-friendly stabiliser aimed at improving the resistance to aging of elastomeric materials. Based on energy change during deformation, cross-linking density and oxygen induction time in the TG method, we confirmed the high antioxidant activity of lauryl gallate in polymers. Moreover, the research on biodegradation confirmed the environmentally friendly interest of the antioxidant by the fact that it increases the susceptibility of the elastomeric materials to disintegration by mildew mushrooms.