Bibliometric Analysis of Nanotechnology in Biopolymers for Sustainable Packaging: Trends, Collaborations, and Materials Optimization

Abstract

The study examines the application of nanotechnology in biopolymers for sustainable packaging, offering a key solution to the growing issue of plastic pollution. The research highlights the enhancement of mechanical and functional properties through the incorporation of nanoparticles, resulting in biopolymers that are stronger, biodegradable, and possess antimicrobial activity. The methodology is based on a bibliometric analysis of scientific publications indexed in Scopus between 2003 and 2025, categorizing papers by affiliations, influential authors, leading countries, and predominant keywords. Tools such as VOSviewer were used to visualize collaboration networks and emerging trends. Among the key findings, there is an exponential growth in research on biopolymers reinforced with nanotechnology, with India leading in scientific production and Universiti Putra Malaysia identified as the institution with the highest number of publications. Additionally, the most cited article discusses natural emulsifiers in biopolymers. The study concludes that nanotechnology enhances sustainable packaging materials and that international collaboration is essential for future innovations, underscoring the consolidation of this field in recent years.