Engineering a Multifunctional g‐C ₃ N ₄ /TiO ₂ Active Packaging Film With Enhanced Barrier and Photocatalytic Properties for Postharvest Preservation of Plum Fruit

ABSTRACT This study addresses postharvest preservation challenges of ethylene‐sensitive “Wushan” plum by developing a novel graphitic carbon nitride/titanium dioxide@polyvinyl alcohol (g‐C 3 N 4 /TiO 2 @PVA) photocatalytic packaging film. The composite film, prepared by embedding g‐C 3 N 4 ‐modified TiO 2 into a PVA matrix, exhibited ethylene photocatalytic‐degradation performance under LED light, excellent mechanical strength, and flexibility, making it highly suitable for practical application. These properties, combined with its enhanced oxygen and water vapor barrier capabilities, synergistically supported shelf‐life extension. Under LED irradiation, the film achieved 80% degradation of 50 ppm ethylene within 6 h while maintaining stable activity under high humidity (95% RH), low light intensity, and cyclic operations. Application to “Wushan” plums under LED irradiation reduced headspace ethylene compared to the pure PVA packaging, which in turn strongly associated with the suppression of the fruit’s endogenous ethylene biosynthesis pathway. This intervention delayed the respiratory peak by over 2 days and maintained fruit firmness 14.9% higher than controls, demonstrating a strong association between photocatalytic scavenging and physiological regulation. Our comprehensive investigation revealed synergistic effects between photocatalytic ethylene degradation and optimized micro‐environment regulation, achieving extended shelf life for climacteric fruit. This work proposes an innovative green preservation strategy integrating LED‐responsiveness photocatalysis and environmental adaptability for horticultural postharvest management.