Effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on the antibacterial and physical properties of polyethylene-based film

TiO2 nanoparticles and their application in packaging systems have attracted a lot of attention because of its antimicrobial activity. In this work, effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on the antibacterial and physical properties of polyethylene (PE)-based film was investigated. Results indicated that the antibacterial activity of TiO2-incorporated PE films should be due to the killing effect property of TiO2 nanoparticles against microorganisms. The TiO2-incorporated PE film exhibited more effective antibacterial activity for Staphylococcus aureus. The antibacterial activity to inactivate Escherichia coli or S. aureus was improved by UV irradiation. The inhibition ratio of TiO2-incorporated PE films sample irradiated for 60 min by UV light was improved significantly, which were 89.3% for E. coli and 95.2% for S. aureus, respectively, compared to that of TiO2-PE film without UV irradiation. The analysis of physical properties revealed that TiO2 nanoparticles increased the tensile strength and elongation at break of PE-based film. The climate resistance of nano-TiO2 films is greatly enhanced, compared to that of the blank PE film. Water vapor transmission increased from 18.1 to 24.6 g/m2·24 h with the incorporation of TiO2 nanoparticles. Results revealed that PE based film incorporating with TiO2 nanoparticles have a good potential to be used as active food packaging system.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► SEM image showed that TiO2 nanoparticles were uniformly incorporated into PE film. ► The antibacterial activity of TiO2-PE film was observed. ► The antibacterial activity was improved by UV light irradiation. ► TiO2 nanoparticles enhanced the climate resistance and water vapor transmission. ► TiO2 particles showed no effects on the tensile strength and elongation at break.