Enhanced properties of novel canola meal nanocomposite packaging films reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals and glycidyl methacrylate

To mitigate environmental pollution caused by the excessive use of petroleum-based products and enhance the utilization of canola meal (CM), a novel nanocomposite film was developed by modifying CM with Glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) and Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). CNCs, known for their high surface area, specific strength, low density and the ability to form hydrogen bonds, serve as effective reinforcing agents in various materials. GMA containing both methacrylic and epoxy groups, modifies rapeseed protein isolate, yielding conjugates with different grafting degrees. The nanocomposite film was fabricated using a combination of wet casting and heat compression, followed by comprehensive characterization. showed that incorporating GMA improved the compactness of the film’s fracture surface. Thermal stability of CM nanocomposite films significantly increased when both CNCs and GMA were incorporated, with maximum tensile strength obtained at 0.5GMA-5CNC. Experimental results also indicated that GMA and CNCs formed covalent bonds with proteins and reacted with fibers in the CM matrix, creating new ordered structure within the nanocomposites. The 0GMA-5CNC film exhibited strong DPPH radical scavenging activity, while blueberries wrapped in 0.5GMA-5CNC experienced minimum weight loss. In addition, the CM composite film demonstrated excellent disintegration under composting conditions. Overall, this study highlights the potential of CM nanocomposite film as a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based products. • Canola meal (CM) was effectively utilized to create a novel composite film through the processes of wet casting and heat compression, incorporating glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). • The mechanical property of modified CM composite was increased by incorporating CNCs and GMA. • The incorporation of GMA and CNCs significantly improved the thermal stability of CM composite films, demonstrating potential for advanced applications. • The addition of CNCs enhanced the antioxidant (DPPH) activity of the CM composite film. • Modified CM composite film exhibits strong biodegradation, making it a fully biodegradable alternative to conventional materials.