Thermomechanical properties of bio-nanocomposite film based on sugar palm starch/chitosan nanoparticles matrices loaded with N-CQD from dragon fruit peel extract
Muhammad Hasan, Dian Nurfathinah, Abdul Gani, Ibnu Khaldun, Ratu Fazlia Inda Rahmayani, Muhammad Nazar
Abstract
This study examines the thermomechanical properties of bio-nanocomposite films made from sugar palm starch and chitosan nanoparticles, enhanced with N-doped Carbon Quantum Dots (NCQD) from dragon fruit peel extract. SEM showed that N-CQD incorporation improved film structure compactness. XRD indicated enhanced interactions between chitosan and starch matrices. Mechanical testing revealed increased tensile strength with NCQD, though elongation at break decreased. Thermal analysis confirmed better stability, and DPPH antioxidant assays highlighted improved antioxidant activity. These findings suggest N-CQD enhances both mechanical and functional properties, making the films suitable for food packaging applications.