Preparation and Antibacterial Properties of Composite Films Based on PVA and Chitosan Combined with Melanin Nanoparticles

Developing biodegradable films with antimicrobial properties is essential for advancing sustainable packaging and biomedical applications. In this study, PVA/chitosan composite films were successfully fabricated and reinforced with melanin nanoparticles (MNPs) derived from black soldier fly (BSF) pupae waste to enhance their functional performance. The films were prepared using solution casting with varying concentrations of MNPs (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0% w/w). FTIR analysis confirmed molecular interactions between the polymer matrix and melanin, while degradation tests showed enhanced stability due to melanin’s hydrophobicity and antioxidant properties. Incorporating melanin significantly improved the films' structural integrity, surface morphology, and antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. These findings highlight the potential of PVA–chitosan–melanin composite films as promising candidates for active food packaging and biomedical applications, combining biodegradability with enhanced functional performance derived from sustainable BSF-based materials.