Effects of the acetic acid–water ratio and zein concentration on solution blow spinning: influence on solution properties and film characterization

Growing emphasis on green sustainability drives interest in eco-friendly packaging. This study first fabricates biodegradable zein-based nanofibers for active food packaging via green solution blow spinning, using zein/polyethylene oxide composites to enhance fiber uniformity and mechanical properties. Systematic modulation of acetic acid-water ratios and zein concentrations tailored nanofiber film characteristics. Optimized films exhibited homogeneous fibrous structures, exceptional thermal stability (T max : 351.71 ± 0.17 °C and 346.86 ± 0.17 °C), and high hydrophobicity (water contact angles >100°). Critically, films with elevated acetic acid-water ratios and zein levels showed superior mechanical strength – tensile strengths of 3.37 MPa and 9.20 MPa, elastic module of 27.02 MPa and 627.01 MPa. Results demonstrate that precise control of acetic acid-water ratios and zein concentration is key to enhancing fiber uniformity, thermal stability, and barrier functionality, advancing high-performance sustainable packaging development.