Comparative study of the packaging properties of olive leaf extract and graphene nanoplate filled chitosan films

Abstract Bio-based packaging is a type of packaging that offers a sustainable alternative that does not harm the environment. Producers use biologically derived materials, often derived from organic waste or renewable plant resources, to produce this type of packaging. The importance of bio-based packaging stems from its many benefits, both environmentally and economically. In this study, olive leaf extract-incorporated chitosan composites were produced as a food packaging material. As an alternative material, graphene nanotubes were doped at the same rates, and the results were compared with the extract. According to the results obtained from the study, olive leaf extract significantly increased the water resistance, moisture resistance, and mechanical strength of the packaging film. The tensile stress increased from 5.7 MPa to 10.4 MPa when the extract ratio increased from zero to three%. The moisture content of the chitosan films decreased from 90% to below 20% when the extract amount was 4 wt%. The results obtained were much better than graphene films. Although it is a natural material, the antimicrobial activity of the extract-doped films was found to be as high as graphene due to the phenolic content. Although the water and moisture resistance of the extract-doped films was higher, it was observed that they completely degraded within 16–20 days in 40% moist soil. In graphene-doped films, soil degradation increased from 16 days to 24 days as the graphene ratio increased.