Sustainable Gelatin‐Based Nanocomposite Packaging Films with Enhanced Physical Properties and Inherent Recyclability

Abstract Gelatin‐based composite films with enhanced physical and barrier performance are attractive for food packaging applications due to their potential to address critical challenges in the food packaging industry. This study presents gelatin‐based nanocomposite films reinforced with Ti ₃ C ₂ T _x MXene, developed through solution casting and optimized for food packaging applications. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirm that MXene nanoplatelets interacted with gelatin through the formation of hydrogen bonds. A homogeneous distribution of MXene in the gelatin matrix is observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The in‐plane alignment of MXene is observed by SEM and is quantitatively demonstrated by polarized Raman spectroscopy. The Young's modulus and tensile strength of the films increased from 1.17 to 1.6 GPa and from 39.2 to 48.4 MPa, respectively, with 0.75 wt.% MXene, while the inclusion of MXene nanoplatelets proves highly effective at blocking UV light transmission. The water and oxygen permeability of the films are considerably reduced while composites display a hydrophobic behavior. Quite importantly, the produced films exhibit outstanding recyclability making them a compelling alternative to traditional packaging materials and addressing environmental concerns in the packaging industry.