Optimizing interfacial adhesion in PBAT/PLA nanocomposite for biodegradable packaging films

Food Chemistry
Shuo QiuJing Xu

Abstract

Biodegradable films poly(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate) (PBAT)/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) incorporated with nano-polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS(epoxy)8) as a reactive compatibilizer were developed by melt processing. Structural, morphological, mechanical, and gas permeability properties of the films were determined. 1H NMR and GPC demonstrated that the POSS(epoxy)8 was chemically bound at the PBAT/PLA boundary phase via an epoxide ring opening reaction. SEM micrographs of impact fracture surfaces demonstrated the POSS(epoxy)8 improved interfacial adhesion between PBAT and PLA matrix. The mechanical properties of the PBAT/PLA films containing POSS(epoxy)8 were enhanced relative to pristine PBAT/PLA films. The water vapor, CO2 and O2 permeability of the PBAT/PLA films were improved by POSS(epoxy)8 addition. PBAT/PLA films containing POSS(epoxy)8 were shown to be superior to pristine PBAT/PLA films and polyethylene films in food storage tests. Results suggest that POSS(epoxy)8 addition during PBAT/PLA film production offers a simple strategy for the production of high performance biodegradable plastic packaging films.

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Adhesion Molecules in Health and Disease

Cell adhesion molecules are a subset of cell adhesion proteins located on the cell surface involved in binding with other cells or with the extracellular matrix in the process called cell adhesion. In essence, cell adhesion molecules help cells stick to each other and to their surroundings. Cell adhesion is a crucial component in maintaining tissue structure and function. Discover the latest research on adhesion molecule and their role in health and disease here.