Active Chitosan‐Eugenol Film Characterization for Microbial Control in Agroindustrial Packaging Applications

Abstract

ABSTRACT The growing demand for sustainable alternatives for food preservation and phytopathogen control has driven the development of functional biomaterials. In this context, chitosan‐based polymeric films incorporating eugenol have emerged as a promising solution, combining biodegradability, antimicrobial properties, and the ability to release bioactive compounds in a controlled manner. However, the effectiveness of these materials depends directly on their physicochemical, structural, and mechanical properties, which are modulated by the interactions between the components in the polymer matrix. Therefore, this study showed that incorporating eugenol at a concentration of 30 g per 100 g of chitosan resulted in films with greater ductility compared to films with lower eugenol concentrations. Likewise, the inclusion of Tween 80 and glycerol in the films led to a decrease in the solubility of the films in water, which may be due to the possible formation of emulsions in the system and their dispersion, as can be seen in the micrographs of the cross‐sections of the films. Therefore, this study advances the understanding that modification of the chitosan matrix improves its functional properties, making it a possible substitute for conventional packaging. Thus, this work contributes significantly to innovations in the field of biomaterials with applications such as active packaging, microbial control, and preservation of products of agricultural origin.