Active LDPE films loaded with biopesticides by supercritical CO2-assisted impregnation for stored grain protection

HERRERA, JIMENA M.; GAÑÁN, NICOLÁS A.; GOÑI, MARIA L.; ZYGADLO, JULIO A.; MARTINI, RAQUEL E.

FOOD PACKAGING AND SHELF LIFE

ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV

Año: 2018 vol. 18 p. 80 - 86

2214-2894

The objective of this work was to incorporate the biopesticide 1-octen-3-ol in polyethylene (LDPE) films using supercritical CO2?assisted impregnation with the aim to obtain bioactive films for stored grain protection and food preservation. The influence of different pressures and depressurization rates on the amount of the volatile organic compound impregnated was evaluated. Results reveal that the best impregnation yield of biopesticide in films (Y%) is associated with low depressurization rate (0.5 MPa min-1) and mild pressure conditions (~9 MPa). The release kinetics of 1-octen-3-ol from the impregnated films was also investigated. In addition, the biocidal activity of impregnated films obtained under the influence of the best operational conditions was tested towards the main pests of stored grains. Films showed insecticidal activity against Sitophilus zeamais and also produced a decrease of the fungal growth rate of Fusarium verticillioides.