Synergistic effect of iron-based metal-organic framework hybridized with carbon quantum dots in agar/gelatin films for fruit preservation

Abstract

A novel hybrid nanostructure was synthesized by functionalizing an iron-based metal-organic framework (MOF) with carbon quantum dots (CD@MOF). The developed CD@MOF had an octahedral crystal structure and exhibited favorable antioxidant, antifungal, and antibacterial activities. MOF and CD@MOF particles are incorporated into agar/gelatin (Agar/Gel) blend polymers. The compatibility and dispersion of CD@MOF in the polymer were confirmed through FTIR, XPS, and SEM analysis. The conjugation of MOF with CDs enriched in active edges resulted in superb antioxidant (71.9 % DPPH and 100 % ABTS) and antibacterial activities. The addition of CD@MOF increased the tensile strength and gas (water vapor and oxygen) barrier and UV barrier (100 % UV blocking) properties of the film. In addition, tomato fruits were packaged with fabricated films and stored at 4 ℃ for 24 days, and quality changes were investigated. The experimental outcomes indicated the effective preservation performance of the Agar/Gel/CD@MOF films on packaged tomatoes.