Preparation and properties of antibacterial and antioxidant mango peel extract/polyvinyl alcohol composite films

In order to improve the high-value utilization of mango peel and the performance of the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films, mango peel extract (MPE) and PVA were blended to prepare multifunctional composite films in this paper. First, gel permeation chromatography was used to determine the molecular weight distribution of MPE, and the major components of MPE were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Subsequently, different ratios of MPE/PVA composite films were prepared. As indicated by the results, the optical and mechanical properties of pure PVA film are significantly affected by the addition of MPE. With addition of 2.4 wt% MPE, the ultimate elongation of this films is significantly increased by 160.24%. The addition of MPE also enhances the water resistibility and thermal stability of the films and significantly improves its antibacterial and antioxidative properties. These results indicate that the prepared composite films is expected to be widely applied in food packaging. Novelty impact statement The mango peel extract (MPE) was prepared, its molecular weight and composition were characterized, and then the MPE/PVA composite films were further prepared. The MPE improved the elongation at break and water resistance of composite films. The MPE gave excellent UV resistance, antibacterial and antioxidant properties to the composite films.