This chapter aims to obtain a better understanding of the role of polymer
nanocomposites in different packaging applications such as food packaging, electronic
packaging, and industrial packaging. Dispersion of nanoparticles (NPs) in the
packaging materials improves the properties like mechanical strength and modulus,
water resistance, gas permeability, etc. In addition, bioactive agents in the packaging
materials impart interesting smart phenomena like antimicrobial, and antifouling
properties. Generally, petroleum fuel-based thermoplastic polymers are conventionally
used in primary and secondary packaging. Some of the widely used polymeric
packaging materials consist of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density
polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE),
polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS). However, as the consequence of the harmful
impacts of fossil fuel-based packaging materials on humans, animals, and the
environment has become understandable, more and more emphasis has been shifted to
biopolymers (cellulose, protein, marine prokaryotes, etc.) and their nanocomposites.
Bio-based or bio-originated polymers or biopolymers are eco-friendly, non-hazardous
to living beings as well as to the environment, biodegradable, abundant, and a better
alternative to depletable fossil fuel-based materials. Biopolymer-based nanocomposites
advocate all desirable aspects of a packaging material to be sustainable, reliable, and
environmentally friendly. In addition, the nature-inspired active and intelligent/smart
packaging materials are economical and their contribution to reviving the circular
economy is prominent.
Keywords: Biopolymer, Nanocomposite, Polymer, Packaging.
