Radiation induced preparation of polymer blends based on poly(vinyl alcohol/xanthan) polymers as gas sensors for food packing

Poly vinyl alcohol/xanthan gum (PVA/XG) blend films were fabricated via solution casting and then exposed to various doses of electron beam (EB) irradiation. The results indicated that the EB treatment has been significantly modified the structural and mechanical properties of the blends compared to pristine PVA. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicated the formation of hydrogen bonding and enhanced the interfacial adhesion and compatibility between the components. These findings were further supported by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and tensile testing. Notably, the irradiated PVA/XG films exhibited rapid color changes in response to fish spoilage, highlighting their potential as reliable, antimicrobial-resistant freshness indicators for food packaging applications.