Carrageenan-chitosan bioplastics reinforced with titanium dioxide: functional properties

In the present study, carrageenan–chitosan bioplastic films reinforced with titanium dioxide (TiO2) were developed to evaluate the effect of inorganic filler incorporation on the performance of biodegradable film systems. Titanium dioxide was incorporated at different concentrations (0%–7% w/w), and the films were prepared using a solution casting method. The resulting films were characterised in terms of mechanical properties, water resistance, barrier properties, biodegradability, and morphology. The overall results showed that titanium dioxide incorporation influenced the performance of the films, particularly by enhancing water resistance while maintaining mechanical stability and biodegradability. Increasing titanium dioxide concentration beyond a certain level did not lead to further improvement in functional properties. Morphological observations using scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of dispersed particles within the polymer matrix, indicating successful incorporation of titanium dioxide and its influence on film structure. Based on these findings, titanium dioxide incorporation can be considered as an approach to adjust the functional characteristics of carrageenan–chitosan bioplastic films, supporting their further development for moisture-sensitive sustainable packaging.