Development and Characterization of Novel Biodegradable Hydrogels With Controlled Moisture Release for Smart Packaging Materials

• Published in: Polymer engineering and science
• Main Authors: Azimov, Abdugani, Bolysbek, Aidarbek, Iztleuov, Gani, Ashirbayev, Zhandos, Amirbekova, Elmira, Duissebayev, Shyngiskan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 17.07.2025
• ISSN: 0032-3888; 1548-2634
• DOI: 10.1002/pen.70053

The relevance of the study is driven by the need to develop environmentally friendly materials for smart packaging capable of regulating moisture and extending the shelf life of products. This task is particularly important in the context of increasing environmental pollution from plastic waste. The primary objective of this study was to develop novel biodegradable hydrogels based on chitosan and alginate with controlled moisture release for smart packaging applications. The study utilized chitosan, sodium alginate, glutaraldehyde, and calcium chloride, while the methods included determining the swelling degree, mechanical properties, biodegradability, and the hydrogels' effects on moisture content, color, and microbial contamination in model products. Key findings demonstrated that chitosan‐based and alginate‐based hydrogels achieved a swelling degree of up to 1500% in distilled water, a tensile strength of 1.2 MPa, an elongation at break of 180%, and 70% biodegradability over 28 days. The application of these hydrogels maintained carrot moisture content at 68% after 28 days, reduced color change (Δ E ) to 14.2, and decreased microbial contamination to 10 5 CFU/g. Limitations include the laboratory‐scale experimental setup, which may differ from real‐world storage conditions, as well as the need for further testing on various products. The practical value of this research lies in the development of eco‐friendly packaging materials capable of extending product shelf life and reducing microbial contamination. These developments hold considerable importance for the food and pharmaceutical industries.