Effect of sonication time and heat treatment on the structural and physical properties of chitosan/graphene oxide nanocomposite films

This study determined the effect of ultrasonication time (30, 60, and 120 min) and heat treatment (30, 60, and 120 degrees C) on the structure and properties of the chitosan/graphene oxide (CSGO) composite films. Graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets with thickness of similar to 1 nm was obtained after 120 min of sonication, as observed using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The incorporation of highly sonicated GO significantly (p < 0.05) improved both visible and ultraviolet (UV) light barrier properties of chitosan (CS) films. The heating temperature of 120 degrees C improved the hydrophobicity of the CSGO composite films, as demonstrated by contact angle analysis. Finally, all films were completely degradable within 28 days in a soil compost. The CSGO composites are potential green alternatives to petrochemical-based food packaging materials.

Automated summary

This study investigated the effect of ultrasonication and heat treatment on the structure and properties of chitosan/graphene oxide composite films, showing improvements in light barrier properties and hydrophobicity, as well as full degradability in soil compost within 28 days. The CSGO composites have the potential to be green alternatives to petrochemical-based food packaging materials.