<b>Development and characterization of biodegradable films for food packaging applications using chitosan and poly(allylamine hydrochloride)</b>

This study aimed to explore the feasibility of CS and poly(allylamine ‎hydrochloride) (PAH) blend films in terms of color, functional groups, ‎morphology, thermal stability, tensile strength (TS), and biodegradability for food packaging ‎applications. Four films namely, CPA-0 (100% CS), CPA-1 (90% CS/10% PAH), CPA-2 (80% CS/20% PAH), and CPA-3 (70% CS/30% PAH) were prepared and characterized using UV/Vis, ATR-FTIR, XRD, and DSC. The physical and optical properties, moisture barrier potential, mechanical strength, thermal characteristics, and biodegradability were investigated to assess the potential of prepared films for their utilization in food packaging applications. It was observed that the film comprising 10% PAH (CPA-1) displayed relatively better mechanical properties, thermal stability, promising moisture barrier, biodegradability (100% within 14 days), and good color tones. CPA-1 exhibited maximum values of TS (83.62 MPa) and YM (2.9 GPa). UV/Visible spectroscopy and ATR-FTIR analysis revealed that CPA-1 exhibited 80% transmittance and compatibility with PAH, respectively. DSC indicated enhanced molecular stability of the CS matrix with PAH. XRD revealed a semi-crystalline structure featuring an orderly arrangement of the polymer, which was instrumental in imparting good mechanical properties. This study suggests the potential of these blend films as a viable option for food packaging.