N-doped carbon dots incorporated chitosan/polyvinylpyrrolidone based polymer film for advanced packaging applications

[Display omitted] •N-doped carbon dots incorporated chitosan/PVP film was prepared by simple solution casting method.•Chitosan/PVP film incorporated with N-doped carbon dots and orange peel extract is a unique combination.•The film showed enhanced mechanical, good moisture resistance properties as need of bioplastic.•It shows excellent biodegradability and positive impacts on plant growth (black gram)•It can be considered as an active material for packaging applications. We have explored the use of N-doped carbon dots (NCDs) as a strengthening agent for the preparation of advanced packaging materials. The incorporation of NCDs in chitosan-polyvinylpyrrolidone (chitosan-PVP) film was achieved by a simple solution casting method to improve the mechanical properties and biodegradability of the film. Orange peel extract has flavouring and antimicrobial properties, incorporated into the film. The synthesized films showed enhanced tensile strength and elongation at break and moisture resistance properties. Moreover, it showed excellent biodegradation ability and promotes plant growth. Therefore, NCDs incorporated film with orange peel extract can be recommended for food packaging applications.