Innovation in Active Packaging: Biodegradable PBAT/Molybdenum Oxide Systems with Nanoparticles for Microplastic Reduction

This study proposes the development of nanocomposite films based on poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) incorporated with different concentrations of molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) for use in biodegradable packaging. The films were produced by extrusion followed by calendering and characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), time-domain nuclear magnetic resonance (TD-NMR), water activity (aW) analysis, and contact angle measurements. FTIR results indicated physical interactions between the polymer matrix and the nanoparticles, particularly in the carbonyl group region. TD-NMR analysis revealed restricted molecular mobility of the PBAT chains in samples with lower MoO3 content, suggesting good nanoparticle dispersion. Water activity decreased with increasing MoO3 concentration, indicating improved barrier properties. Contact angle measurements showed that the formulation with 0.1% MoO3 exhibited greater hydrophilicity, due to the generation of more heterogeneous materials, which is in agreement with the TD-NMR measurements. The results suggest that controlled incorporation of MoO3 can enhance the structural and functional properties of PBAT, reinforcing its potential as a material for active and sustainable packaging.