Study of the release kinetics of Ethyl Lauroyl Arginate from poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) active films

This study investigates the underexplored area of the release mechanism and kinetics of the antimicrobial Ethyl Lauroyl Arginate (LAE®) from an innovative active packaging system based on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV). We evaluated the impact of food simulants and temperatures on LAE® release, diffusion, and partition coefficients. Mathematical modeling was used to elucidate LAE® release kinetics, offering understanding of the release behaviour in food matrices. Results highlighted that temperature notably affected LAE® release into simulant A (10% EtOH) unlike the release into simulant D1 (50% EtOH). Although the release was faster in the less polar simulant, a greater partition coefficient demonstrated greater LAE® retention within the polymer matrix at equilibrium. Weibull models ensured robust fits, suggesting their usefulness for future studies on LAE® release kinetic. Finally, the active films were validated in food, showing significant reduction in microbial counts. These findings contribute to the design of effective antimicrobial food packaging and the selection of suitable food applications.