Preparation and characterization of methylated guar gum based nano-composite films

Nano-composite films using methylated guar gum (MGG) were prepared by incorporating unmodified (nanofil 116) and organically modified (cloisite 20A) nanoclays. Changes in mechanical properties, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), color and opacity of films due to incorporation of nanoclays were analyzed. The films were also examined by FTIR, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A significant (p < 0.05) improvement of 116 and 122% in tensile strength with 15 and 19% lower WVTR was obtained in films containing 20% nanofil 116 and cloisite 20A, respectively, in comparison to the control MGG films. Opacity of the films was not significantly (p > 0.05) affected by addition of the nanoclays. XRD analysis revealed an increased interstitial spacing for both the nanoclays due to intercalation of methylated guar gum which brought about improvement in barrier and mechanical properties of nanocomposite films.

Automated summary

Incorporating nanoclays into methylated guar gum films can significantly improve tensile strength and reduce water vapor transmission rate, while not affecting the opacity of the films. The intercalation of methylated guar gum improves the barrier and mechanical properties of nanocomposite films.