Investigation of synergistic effects of polyols and cellulose‐based reinforcements on kappa‐carrageenan films

Abstract

AbstractThis study investigates the synergistic effects of the incorporation of various plasticizers and reinforcing agents on the characteristics of κ‐carrageenan (kC) film. Different plasticizers, including polyols and glycols, were used to improve elongation at break, whereas nanoclay, urea and varied forms of cellulose were used as reinforcing agents. The physicochemical and morphological properties of kappa‐carrageenan films plasticized and reinforced with various additives were quantified for their swelling behavior, mechanical strength, chemical composition, and structural features. Among the plasticizers used in the study, glycerol (30% with respect to kC) plasticized films showed better elongation properties (48.7%) as compared to the other plasticizers. In the reinforced carrageenan films, without plasticizer, oxidized bacterial cellulose demonstrated the best mechanical strength of 89.5 MPa as compared to other reinforcement agents. Moreover, 5% bacterial cellulose modified carrageenan film significantly maintained the mechanical properties (58.3 MPa) of the kC films plasticized with 30% glycerol, providing 15% elongation. The addition of glycerol to the reinforced films also influenced the water absorption and water vapor transmission rates of the polymer matrix. In addition, additives like halloysite nanoclay in plasticized carrageenan films demonstrated 16% improved barrier properties. This comprehensive analysis of different additives in κ‐carrageenan films broadens the potential for food packaging and biomedical applications.