Response surface methodology analysis towards biodegradability and antimicrobial activity of biopolymer film containing turmeric oil against Aspergillus niger

The antimicrobial activity and biodegradability of the biopolymer film (as a coating for kraft paper) was analysed using response-surface methodology. The results of the study showed that both the coating thickness and the turmeric oil volume significantly affected these responses. From the response-surface plot, the highest value for the inhibition zone of Aspergillus niger and the lowest weight loss during the biodegradation study were due to the slow release of antimicrobial agents. This indicates that the released of antimicrobial agents occurred during the correct stipulated period of time required to inhibit the microorganisms' growth. Therefore, the results suggested that applying a biopolymer film containing turmeric oil as a kraft-paper coating can improve the paper's packaging functionality by prolonging the shelf life of foods. In addition, all the samples degraded in typical soil conditions, showing that this coating can be disposed of in landfills after use.