Contributions of polyelectrolyte complexes and ionic bonding to performance of barrier films for packaging: A review

Barrier films that are used on packages play an important role, especially in the protection of food products. Research is being carried out at accelerating pace to replace petroleum-based plastic films, which do not biodegrade and difficult recycle. This review article considers publications related use polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) barrier as a strategy decrease permeation oxygen other substances into from packages. progress has been achieved using combinations positively negatively charged polymers, sometimes together with platy mineral particles, way restrict diffusion through packaging materials. In principle, ionic bonds within PECs contribute relatively high cohesive energy density such film, can resist various gases greasy substances. Resistance water vapor, well aqueous substances, represent challenges for concepts depend bond contributions. Factors affecting performance PEC-based discussed light research findings.