Advanced polymer nanocomposites in packaging applications

Abstract Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) have emerged as advanced materials for several crucial applications such as packaging, electronics, pharmaceuticals, construction and transportation. This review work explores the integration of various dispersible nanostructures or nanofillers in the polymeric matrix, and the resultant properties of the nanocomposites specially with respect to packaging applications. With an improved combination of mechanical, thermal, optical and barrier properties along with reduced environmental impact with biodegradable polymers, these PNCs offer durable and sustainable packaging solutions. A comprehensive summary of the recent research work on the preparation and relevant properties of eco-friendly and biodegradable polymer nanocomposites, is presented here with an emphasis on commercial applications. The versatility, enhanced functionalities, and potential for sustainable packaging render the PNCs as valuable materials in the packaging industry. Nanomaterials such as metal oxides, ceramics, carbon based, polymers and hybrids have been summarized for their exclusive characteristics including surface area, magnetic behavior, optical properties, and catalytic activity. These nanofillers dispersed in various polymeric structures have been reported in a wide range of industrial and environmental applications. The diverse combinations of the nanofillers and the polymers are utilized to fabricate the PNCs with desirable characteristics.