Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes doped with Phytocompounds of Centella asiatica for food packing applications and their anti‐microbial properties

Abstract

Centella asiatica phytocompounds coated onto Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotube (MWCNT) possessing antibacterial activity were prepared using a simple physical absorption method. The incorporation of Centella asiatica phytocompounds into functionalized MWCNTs could improve the physical properties of Centella asiatica phytocompounds conjugated MWCNT compared to pure MWCNT. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) results depict the presence of bioactive compounds on MWCNT coatings and the Raman spectrum confirms the presence of carbon in various ranges by their peaks from 636 to 1594.46 cm−1 in the MWCNT. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) micrograph images confirmed the existence of MWCNT‐Nano composites with Centella asiatica phytocompounds exhibiting the surface structure with pore clarity and visible pipes. Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) images show the uniform dispersed spherical ultrathin nanosheets at the size of 10–20 nm. Further anti‐bacterial analysis results revealed that Centella asiatica phytocompounds coating enhances the anti‐bacterial activity of MWCNT. Prepared Centella asiatica phytocompounds ‐MWCNT possess maximal inhibition and produces high zones of inhibition 11 ± 0.06, 17 ± 0.08, 14 ± 0.07, and 16 ± 0.08 mm against four food‐spoiling bacterial clinical pathogens Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumonia respectively. Centella asiatica phytocompounds conjugated‐MWCNT spin‐coated packaging showed good preservation properties. Centella asiatica phytocompounds conjugated with MWCNTs provide antimicrobial properties, enabling the development of novel food packaging materials that can protect food from spoilage, increase food stability, and sustainability, and improve the shelf life of food.