A Versatile Bio-packing Based on Natural Extract from Calotropis procera a Sustainable Alternative for Agriculture and Biofouling Applications

Abstract

Background and objective: Despite the situation in the north of Minas Gerais being semiarid, this region presents a plant with low water demand, Calotropis procera. This plant has a great potential as an antifungicide supply, although other important characteristics. In this context, this research proposes an extraction of natural material from C. procera to produce a bio-packing for agriculture and anticorrosive applications as a sustainable alternative. This biopacking is eco-friendly, low-cost, widely available, and quickly produced. The antifungicide and anticorrosive activity were evaluated as the control of fruit ripening based on in vivo tests. Materials and methods: This research is based on the production of bio-packing based on natural extracts from C. procera seeds for agricultural and anticorrosive applications. The material was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and surface contact angle. In addition, in vitro and in vivo biological experiments were performed to analyze the antifungal activity and control of fruit ripening. Moreover, the anticorrosive property was also analysed. Results: The results indicated the presence of proteins in the composition of the product based on natural extract, which may contribute to the antifungal and anticorrosive characteristics. Furthermore, the natural extract demonstrated anticorrosive protection in simulated seawater. The in vivo analysis of bananas showed that the extract concentration of 50 μL mL^-1 presented the best results, controlling the fruit ripening and protecting against diseases. Conclusion: Thus, for the first time, these products extracted from C. procera seeds presented a great future for applications as a versatile action for agriculture and anticorrosive applications.