Preparation of cellulose film in ionic liquid by high shearing and application in pineapple preservation
Xiaoyi Wei, Lixiu Zhang, Junhai Wang, Jihua Li, Wei Zhou
Abstract
Abstract In this study, the pineapple leaf cellulose film was prepared in ionic liquid by high shearing force and used for fresh-cut pineapple preservation. First, cellulose was dissolved in ionic liquid (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Bmim]Cl)) using a high shear mixer. The regenerated cellulose was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier transformed infrared spectra (FT-IR), and thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA). Results showed that the cellulose was dissolved in ionic liquid at room temperature with a high regeneration rate of more than 95% and for less than 2 min. It was suggested that the network of cellulose was destroyed by high shearing force. Then the cellulose film was obtained by casting on the glass plates. The mechanical properties of the films were evaluated by extension test with the tensile strength of 34 MPa. The proposed film was used for fresh-cut pineapple packaging. Results showed that it could significantly decrease weight loss and maintain the firmness of the pineapple, and thus, improve the quality of the fruit during storage. The findings demonstrate a facile biodegradable packaging route to improve food sustainability and reduce waste.