Effect of coating with novel bio nanocomposites of cationic starch/cellulose nanocrystals on the fundamental properties of the packaging paper

In this research, an environmentally friendly and biodegradable cationic starch (CS)/nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) nanocomposite coating was produced and it was applied to improve the mechanical, barrier and physical properties of packaging kraft paper via surface coating. The mechanical and barrier properties of the paper were affected by the CS/NCC nanocomposite coating and it was the subject of investigation. CS/NCC nanocomposites were prepared by the solvent method. Structural and morphological properties of the nanocomposite were studied by FESEM and TEM observation. Results showed that the increased NCC nanoparticles loading, increased the tensile strength, oil resistance and air resistance of the coated paper. Also, the water absorption of the coated paper decreased 50% at 5 wt% NCC concentration. In our study it was concluded that the optimized amount for the NCC nanoparticles (among, 3 wt%, 5 wt%, and 7 wt%), is 5 wt%. The CS/NCC nanocomposite coatings are then proposed as a favorable booster which intensifies the mechanical and barrier properties of the paper in the food packaging application.