Biodegradable poly(lactic‐acid)/poly(trimethylene‐carbonate)/laponite composite film: development and application to the packaging of mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus)

The effects of laponite (0, 1, 2, and 3 wt%) on poly(lactic‐acid)/poly(trimethylene‐carbonate) (PLA/PTMC) composite film properties were studied, and the effects of the use of such composite films on the postharvest quality of mushrooms ( Agaricus bisporus ) were determined. An increase in the laponite contents enhanced the toughness and water vapor permeability (WVP) of the PLA/PTMC/laponite composite films. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results indicated that the crystallinity of the PLA phase increased by the presence of laponite filler. The PLA/PTMC/laponite composite films reduced the softening of mushrooms, but were not effective at reducing weight loss. The CO 2 level inside of the PLA/PTMC/laponite composite films was significantly ( p < 0.05) lower than those inside of the LDPE film, but the O 2 level was similar in all packages. The overall acceptability of mushrooms packed in the PLA/PTMC/L2 and PLA/PTMC/L3 films remained good and within the limits of marketability after 12 d of storage. These results support the applicability of laponite filler in PLA/PTMC blend films and the use of these composite films in the packaging of mushrooms.