Characterization of the Paper Coated with Polyhydroxybutyrate/Ethyl Cellulose Blends

Abstract

In this study, paper was surface-treated with biodegradable blends made from polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and ethyl cellulose (EC) in various ratios to prepare coated paper, whose surface structure, barrier properties, and mechanical properties were analyzed to evaluate its applicability as a packaging material. It was found that as the coat weight increased, a continuous and smooth coating layer was formed, and the barrier properties and mechanical strength of the coated paper improved. When paper was surface-treated with a mixture of PHB and EC, the uniformity of the coating layer was increased and barrier properties were improved compared with the case where only PHB or EC was used as a surface treatment. The tensile strength of the coated paper improved as the mixing ratio of EC increased, but there was no significant change in elongation except under the condition of surface treatment with EC alone. Consequently, it could be considered that when PHB was applied as a surface treatment material for paper, the addition of EC was effective in improving the physical properties required as a packaging material.