This study demonstrates a simple approach to synthesize green Cu particles stabilized by poly(n-vinyl)pyrrolidone (PVP): the latter acts as stabilizer and dispersant, and its presence in solution eliminates the need for an inert atmosphere. Synthetic parameters were tuned to obtain particles with diameters >200 nm, to be human-safe and prevent nano-cytotoxicity. PVP and reductant concentrations, with reaction times, were varied to investigate their effect on colloidal stability, kinetics, and particles size. Particles were fully characterized, morphologically and spectroscopically. Cu@PVP colloids were washed, to remove unbound PVP and reactions byproducts, and then embedded in chitosan (CS) polymer matrix, to prepare self-standing films for food packaging applications. Films were obtained by a simple solvent evaporation protocol. Pellicles were characterized by common analytical techniques; viscoelastic properties, water uptake, and Cu2+ ionic release were investigated, as well. The films antimicrobial efficacy was also tested against three different model fungi responsible for agrifood spoilage.

Green Cu particles for functional and biodegradable food packaging solutions

Maria Chiara Sportelli
;
Luigi Gentile;Margherita Izzi;Ornella Incerti;Simona Marianna Sanzani;Nicola Cioffi
2025-01-01

Abstract

This study demonstrates a simple approach to synthesize green Cu particles stabilized by poly(n-vinyl)pyrrolidone (PVP): the latter acts as stabilizer and dispersant, and its presence in solution eliminates the need for an inert atmosphere. Synthetic parameters were tuned to obtain particles with diameters >200 nm, to be human-safe and prevent nano-cytotoxicity. PVP and reductant concentrations, with reaction times, were varied to investigate their effect on colloidal stability, kinetics, and particles size. Particles were fully characterized, morphologically and spectroscopically. Cu@PVP colloids were washed, to remove unbound PVP and reactions byproducts, and then embedded in chitosan (CS) polymer matrix, to prepare self-standing films for food packaging applications. Films were obtained by a simple solvent evaporation protocol. Pellicles were characterized by common analytical techniques; viscoelastic properties, water uptake, and Cu2+ ionic release were investigated, as well. The films antimicrobial efficacy was also tested against three different model fungi responsible for agrifood spoilage.
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11586/520295
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