Abstract
The growing environmental impact of conventional plastics has intensified the search for sustainable alternatives for food packaging. This study develops biodegradable films based on hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) incorporated with Moringa oleifera extract and evaluates their physicochemical, optical, mechanical, and structural properties. Films were prepared by casting with different extract concentrations. The incorporation of the extract significantly modified optical properties, decreasing gloss and lightness while increasing opacity and UV-blocking capacity. Water vapour permeability decreased at intermediate concentrations, indicating improved barrier performance. Mechanical analysis revealed reduced tensile strength and elastic modulus but increased elongation at break, confirming a plasticising effect. Microstructural analysis showed increased surface heterogeneity at higher extract levels. Overall, HPMC–Moringa oleifera films exhibit enhanced functional performance and potential for sustainable active packaging applications.
