Investigating the Structural and Physicochemical Properties of Vicia ervilia Protein Isolate/Launaea acanthodes Gum Nanocomposite Film Containing Graphene Oxide Nanoparticles and Silybum marianum Extract Microcapsules.

This study was conducted to generate and investigate the structural characteristics and antioxidant properties of a nano-composite film produced from Vicia ervilia protein (VEPI)—Launaea acanthodes gum (LAG). The film containing Silybum marianum extract microcapsules (SMEM) at varying volumes (0, 2.2, 7.5, 12.8, 15 v/v) along with different concentrations of graphene oxide nanoparticles (GONPs) (0, 0.6, 2.0, 3.4, 4.0 w/v). The thickness, solubility, and moisture content of the film samples increased after the integration of SMEM and GONPs (P < 0.05). Fourier-transform infrared analysis of the film sample based on VEPI/LAG/SMEM/GONPs showed proper interactions, including electrostatic interaction between these materials. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed a lower degree of crystallinity in the nano-composite film by adding GONPs and SMEM. The Differential scanning calorimetry analysis conducted on the composite and optimized films, integrating SMEM and GONPs, revealed an elevation in both the glass transition temperature and the thermal degradation temperature compared to the blank sample. The results obtained from Field emission scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that the type and quantity of variables significantly influenced the surface morphology of the films, leading to the formation of cracks and pores in the film. Furthermore, the findings regarding antimicrobial activity demonstrated that the nanocomposite film, incorporating SMEM and GONPs, exhibited antimicrobial properties against E. coli and S. aureus bacteria. According to our result VEPI/LAG/SMEM/GONPs nanocomposite film possess potential to be used as environment friendly packaging films to improve shelf life of food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]