Lignocellulosic fibre extraction from hazelnut shells and utilization of the extracted fibre as filler in chitosan-based biodegradable packaging films

Abstract This study investigated the utilization of hazelnut shells-derived lignocellulosic fibres as fillers in biodegradable chitosan-based films. The optimal extraction conditions for lignocellulosic fibres were identified by employing a Box-Behnken design and response surface methodology. Both untreated hazelnut shell (UF) and alkali-extracted lignocellulosic fibres (EF) were incorporated into chitosan-based films at concentrations of 1%, 5%, 10%, and 20% (w/w). The effects of these fillers on film properties including water vapour permeability, optical characteristics, mechanical strength, thermal stability, antimicrobial activity and morphology were systematically assessed. A positive correlation between filler concentration, film thickness and opacity was observed, with a significant reduction in water vapour permeability (p< 0.05). Thermal stability was improved with 1% EF filler, and intrinsic antimicrobial activity of chitosan films was observed. This study highlighted the potential of hazelnut shell-derived lignocellulosic fibres as fillers for chitosan-based films, demonstrating the feasibility of valorising agricultural waste for food packaging applications.