Prediction of Some Physical Attributes of Cassava Starch–Zinc Nanocomposite Film for Food‑Packaging Applications
Loading...
Date
2018
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Journal of Packaging Technology and Research, Springer Nature
Abstract
Characterization of nanocomposite film requires a high level of instrumentation and accuracy in measurements. It is normally arduous to achieve correct measurement of a system under different conditions using the same instrument without allowing for errors. For this reason, model representation of a system is usually encouraged. In this research, empirical model equations were developed for predicting some physical attributes of cassava starch–zinc nanocomposite film for food-packaging applications. Samples of the films, with thickness ranging between 15 and 17 μm, were developed by blending 24 g of cassava starch, 0–2% zinc nanoparticles, and 45–55% glycerol. The permeability of the films, which helps in maintaining the quality of packaged food, was determined due to oxygen and water vapour at a temperature of 27 °C and 65% RH. Elastic modulus and hardness were determined using nano-indentation techniques. Empirical model equations were developed using Box–Behnken design from 60% of the total data and the remainder were predicted. Results showed that the models developed are fit, and there were no significant differences between the 40% remaining data and model predicted data (<0.05). The contributions of the model terms to the validity of the equations were generally high with mean square error (MSE) < 10%. The result indicates that the models can be suitable for predicting permeability, hardness, and elastic modulus of cassava starch-zinc nanocomposite film.