Although application of silver based antimicrobial systems is a widespread
phenomenon since recent years, apprehension of the full potential
of silver as antimicrobial and its possible implementation in food
packaging technologies is still a challenging task. The present paper
evidences the possibility of tuning the release profiles of PLA films
with silver by the addition of a beeswax layer, evaluates the different
parameters affecting their release profiles and correlates silver ion
concentration under the various conditions with its corresponding
antimicrobial efficacy. This could allow the fabrication of tailor-made
antimicrobial coated films as to suit a specific application and puts
forth the possible suitability of these materials for food packaging or
other “migration sensitive” applications.