Preparation and characterization of micro and nanocomposites based on poly(vinyl alcohol) for packaging applications

In the present work, micro and nano composites based on poly(vinyl alcohol) matrix reinforced with cellulose (micro) and bentonite (nano) were obtained by film casting. The resulting composite materials were characterized by means of differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, FTIR spectroscopy, water absorption, permeability, and mechanical tests. The effect of the micro and nano fillers on the thermal, mechanical, and water absorption properties of the matrix was determined. The effects of polymer molecular weight and processing steps were also studied. Based on the results of the work, the potential biodegradability and the low cost of the starting materials, it can be concluded that the produced materials may be promising for packaging applications.