Effect of glycerol concentration on WPI blended edible films

Abstract

This thesis is based in a approach to sustainable packaging by using as a base WPI (Whey Protein Isolate) combined with glycerol as a plasticizer into biopolymer based films. The increased environmental concerns related to the use of plastic in packaging materials have led to the necessity for this alternate form of manufacture. This problem needs eco-friendly alternatives like biopolymer based packaging. Biopolymer-based packaging materials have gained a huge interest in the world during the last years because of their renewability and biodegradability offering a promising solution to packaging waste. Combined with the WPI (Whey protein isolate) and glycerol as a plasticizer presents a very good approach to enhance the mechanical barrier and biodegradability properties of the packaging materials. This study presents an in-depth review of biopolymers, WPI and glycerol highlighting their individual properties and potential in sustainable packaging applications. Throughout the experiments a series of formulations of biopolymer, glycerol and WPI blends can be synthesized by using different techniques. These techniques are tested in order to see the structural integrity and performance of the different techniques. Comparing these packaging materials to the traditional plastics that are being used today, they are safer for the environment. This statement is made based on the ecological footprint of the materials. The outcome of this study is to contribute to giving sustainable solutions to the packaging materials. Presenting the biopolymer, glycerol and WPI (Whey protein isolate) blending as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional packaging materials. The addition of WPI gives a very high value to the film-forming properties of the packaging and has also nutritional benefits. While the glycerol used increases the biodegradability and the flexibility of the packaging material. This research has as a main aim to give a solution to the present need for environmentally sustainable packaging materials. These studies provided an in-depth investigation of the impact of different glycerol concentration (%). And also the addition of the glycerol which can be done prior to or after to protein denaturation.