Achieving performance and functionality in PLA-based packaging: Insights from hybrid composites with false banana (Enset) fiber and ZnO nanoparticles

The use of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)-based composites reinforced with natural fibers is becoming increasingly popular in sustainable packaging. However, these materials often lack adequate barriers and desirable functional properties. Concurrently, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have been incorporated into PLA-based composites to develop functional packaging films. Despite this progress, there is a gap in the literature regarding packaging materials that require both functional and performance properties, specifically those that combine natural fibers and ZnO NPs within the PLA matrix. This study aims to develop and optimize the effects of ZnO nanofillers and false banana, also called Enset fibers (EFs) as hybrid reinforcements in PLA matrices. A central composite design (CCD) approach was used to evaluate the effects of EFs at three levels (5 %, 15 %, and 25 % w/w) and ZnO NPs at three levels (0 %, 5 %, and 10 % w/w) on the performance (tensile and flexural strength) and functional properties (water and antibacterial activity) of the resulting nanocomposite materials. The findings indicate that the inclusion of ZnO NPs significantly enhanced both the performance and functional properties of the nanocomposites, whereas the inclusion of EFs improved the performance properties but reduced the functional properties of the nanocomposites. Ultimately, this study identified an optimal formulation for producing durable and functional composites for various packaging applications.