Synthesis of composite films using polymer blends of chitosan and cellulose nanocrystals from marine origin

Abstract

AbstractThin films reinforced with chitosan and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were produced using the casting process. In this study, the impact of plasticisers and sizing agents such as glycerol and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) respectively on morphological, structural, thermal, and mechanical properties was investigated. The results showed the blends of CNC/PVA/glycerol gave better results when compared to films produced by blends of chitosan/PVA/glycerol films and chitosan/CNC/PVA/glycerol films. The UV spectroscopy showed 65% transmittance for chitosan/PVA/glycerol films, while the film of CNC/PVA/glycerol showed transmittance of 40%. The transmittance of chitosan/CNC/PVA/glycerol showed 75%. The films formed by the combination of CNC/PVA/glycerol showed better stress/strain properties than other films. The films of all combinations showed good thermal stability between the range of 350 and 450 °C. The morphological study using SEM revealed smooth texture for all the films. The study suggests that the films produced may be used for the food packaging applications due to its thermal stability and stress/strain properties.