Lucia García-Guzmán

Dr. Lucia García-Guzmán


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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20 December 2024 in Foods
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
LGLucia García-Guzmán
Lucia García-Guzmán
GVGonzalo Velazquez
Gonzalo Velazquez
IAIsrael Arzate-Vázquez
Israel Arzate-Vázquez
PCPatricia Castaño-Rivera
Patricia Castaño-Rivera
MGMaría Guerra-Valle
María Guerra-Valle
Andrea Yazmin Guadarrama-LezamaAndrea Yazmin Guadarrama-Lezama
Andrea Yazmin Guadarrama-Lezama
This study explored the effect of incorporating cellulose and starch nanoparticles, obtained from the Commelina coelestis Willd plant, on the physical and chemical properties of starch-based films derived from the same plant. Additionally, the synergistic effect of combining the nanostructures was assessed. The nanocomposite biopolymer films were prepared by the casting method using 1 and 3 wt% concentrations of the nanostructures (CNCs: cellulose nanocrystals, CNFs: cellulose nanofibers, SNCs: starch nanocrystals), or their blend. The physicochemical (swelling capacity and water solubility), morphological (SEM and AFM), thermal (DSC and TGA), and mechanical properties (tensile strength, elongation at break, and Young’s modulus) of the films were evaluated. The nanocomposite biopolymer films exhibited better dimensional stability (40–60%) than the control films. Tensile strength (8–300%) and Young’s modulus (15–690%) were improved. Moreover, these films displayed enhanced thermal stability, withstanding temperatures exceeding 305 °C. FTIR spectra evidenced intermolecular interaction among the matrix and nanostructures. Microscopic analyses further supported the integrity of the films, which displayed a homogeneous surface and the absence of fractures. In addition, the nanocomposite biopolymer films prepared with 1 wt% cellulose nanocrystals and nanofibers had a lower opacity than those with a higher percentage (3 wt%). Overall, our findings suggest that the Commelina coelestis Willd is a promising starch source that can be used to obtain nanocomposite biopolymer films as an alternative to produce novel, efficient, and eco-friendly materials with adequate thermo-mechanical properties intended to replace conventional plastic materials in single-use applications such as those used in the food packaging industry.