ABSTRACT
This comprehensive review investigates a variety of creative approaches in the field of sustainable food packaging biomaterials in response to growing environmental concerns and the negative effects of traditional plastic packaging. The study carefully looks at new developments in biomaterials, such as biodegradable polymers, ceramics, composites, and metal alloys, in response to the growing need for environmentally suitable substitutes. It highlights how they might replace conventional plastic packaging and lessen environmental damage. Moreover, the incorporation of nanotechnology into packaging is closely examined due to its crucial function in improving barrier qualities, introducing antimicrobial properties, and introducing smart packaging features. The investigation includes edible coatings and films made of biodegradable polymers that offer new sensory experiences in addition to prolonging the shelf life of products. The review emphasizes the use of biomaterials derived from food processing and agricultural waste, supporting environmentally responsible methods of producing materials while simultaneously using less resources and waste. As a strong defense against plastic pollution, the report highlights the food industry's increasing use of recyclable and biodegradable packaging, which is in line with the concepts of the circular economy. A movement in consumer tastes and regulatory pressures toward sustainable food packaging is evident in global market patterns. Notwithstanding these encouraging trends, there are still issues to be resolved, including cost-effectiveness, technological constraints, and the scalability of biomaterial production. This thorough analysis concludes by highlighting the critical role biomaterials have played in guiding the food industry toward sustainability and emphasizing the need for ongoing research and development to adequately address environmental issues on a worldwide scale and satisfy the growing demand for environmentally friendly packaging options. Biomaterials show great promise as catalysts for the food industry's transition to a sustainable future.
ABSTRACT
This research paper presents a comprehensive analysis of epoxy composites fortified with natural fibers such as jute, banana, and coconut, further augmented by the incorporation of Rubik's layer, aimed at evaluating their mechanical performance in terms of tensile, bending, and impact properties. As sustainable alternatives to traditional reinforcement materials, these natural fibers offer the advantage of low environmental impact, renewability, and biodegradability. The Rubik's layer, known for its three-dimensional interlocking structure, holds promise in enhancing composite properties due to its unique geometry and material characteristics. The study involves the fabrication of composite specimens through a systematic layering process, varying the composition of natural fibers and Rubik's layer. A comprehensive experimental campaign is conducted to assess the tensile strength, bending modulus, and impact resistance of the resultant composites. The results are systematically compared against those of pristine epoxy composites to ascertain the influence of the added reinforcements and enhancement layer. The findings reveal distinctive trends in mechanical behavior based on the type and proportion of natural fibers employed. Notably, the jute-reinforced composites exhibit commendable tensile and bending properties, while banana and coconut reinforcements contribute to improved impact resistance. The introduction of the Rubik's layer further refines these properties, with discernible variations based on its placement within the composite structure. This paper offers valuable insights into the multifaceted impact of natural fiber reinforcements and Rubik's layer incorporation on epoxy composites. The systematic evaluation of mechanical attributes provides a comprehensive understanding of the synergistic effects among these constituents. As the demand for sustainable and high-performance materials escalates, this research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on composite design, catering to diverse engineering applications that prioritize mechanical excellence and ecological responsibility.
