THE FORMATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF SUSTAINABLE LAYERED FILMS INCORPORATING MICROFIBRILLATED CELLULOSE (MFC)

Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC), TEMPO-pretreated MFC, and hybrid polymer/MFC mix were used for the production of layered films with interesting properties for application in food packaging. The series of samples were prepared from MFC (base layers) using a dispersion-casting method. The same procedure as well as a bar coating technique was applied to form top layers of different basis weights. The barrier properties and formation of the layered films were investigated in relationship to the preparation procedures, combination of layers, and areal weight (basis weight). Characterization was done with respect to oxygen transmission rates (OTR), water vapor transmission rates (WVTR), tensile properties, and contact angles (CA) with water. The produced layered films yielded OTR values of 4 mL m-2 day-1 and fulfilled oxygen barrier requirements for a modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). Hornification of the MFC films, however, occurred during drying, which may result in a loss of the film’s beneficial properties.