Schiff's base (SB) modified zirconium dioxide reinforced PLA bio-composite film for industrial packaging applications

Two materials commonly called as the material of choice - Polylactic acid (PLA) and material of interest zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) are ground using a planetary ball mill into powder to form a continuous thin film that is used for packaging applications. This organic-inorganic hybrid bio-composite shall challenge the existing materials in terms of its enhanced degradability, barrier properties, and performance. Apparently, this research work will also be a paradigm in contributing to the development of biomaterials that are useful in reducing waste disposal and replacing the diminishing resources. The results obtained from contact angle test demonstrate that 3% loaded ZrO2 - PLA bio-composite film with a contact angle value of 75.2 degrees is adequate for packaging application. The DSC and mechanical tests prove that the SB modified ZrO2 has increased the flexibility of the bio-composite film of PLA. The glass transition (T-g) was slightly shifted to the lower side and found at 51.9 degrees C, which is 4.1 degrees C lesser than the neat PLA (56 degrees C). Hence, the ultimate outcome of this research seems to cater the overall societal demands for feasibility and environmental safety, paving a way to studies directed towards the progress of biopolymers in industrial applications in general. Additionally, the tensile and other mechanical tests have yielded superior values due to the incorporation of this filler.

Automated summary

The research demonstrates the potential of bio-composite materials formed by polylactic acid and zirconium dioxide for packaging applications, showing advantages in terms of degradability and flexibility. The contact angle test results indicate that the 3% loaded ZrO2-PLA bio-composite film is suitable for packaging applications.