Development and characterization of biodegradable composite film

Abstract

The major concern to the mankind in this generation is clean and green environment. New materials and technologies are developed for everyday purpose products. Biopolymers are widely used in food packaging applications. The food grade film developed with starch and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is non-toxic and edible but have low tensile properties. In this study composite structure of corn starch and polyvinyl alcohol with incorporation of coir fiber particle reinforcement was prepared by solution casting method and characterized for their performance properties. Surface modification of coir fiber was done by chemical agents (H 2 O 2 , NaOCl and KMnO 4 ) with concentration of 0.5% and 1.5% (v/v) of chemicals. Tensile properties and surface/morphological characteristics were evaluated by Universal Testing Machine (UTM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) respectively. It was observed that the tensile strength of composite structure was increased by the incorporation of fiber particles. Water absorbency and degradability were also evaluated. It was observed that the tensile strength of composite structure was increased by the incorporation of fiber particles. It was inferred that composite structure with low fiber particle concentration can be utilized in packaging applications due to its better tensile strength. • Natural waste materials are recycled for value added product manufacturing. • Biodegradable composite film with enhanced performance properties were developed. • Composite films can be used for some enhanced period and compostable after use.