Effect of aminolysis treatment on self-healing properties and printing potentialities of banana peel and edible wax based biodegradable film

Abstract

Cellulose-based materials are a viable alternative to petroleum-based sources; however, the practical applicability of cellulose films is severely limited by their poor hydrophobicity. This study explores the development of hydrophobic films with self-healing properties through the incorporation of natural wax into a cellulose matrix. Different formulations of films were developed varying the concentration of glycerol (0 % to 3.5 % v/v) and aminolysis treatment. Printability property, rubbing, acid, and water resistance property of the film were also evaluated. The self-healing efficiency of the films varied from around 30 % to 80 % based on variations in glycerol and aminolysis treatment provided. Aminolysis-treated films showed enhanced self-healing properties (Self-healing efficiency ~77 %) compared to the control films. The films were characterized for their physical, mechanical, barrier, and thermal properties and it was found that 1.5 % had superior properties compared to other compositions. Printability properties showed that aminolysis-treated films had better wetting properties (WCA ~ 74.46°) with a peak tact force of 8.1 N. This signifies aminolysis-treated films had better ink absorption and adhesion properties, which confirms the printability nature of the films. This study highlights the potential applications of biodegradable self-healing based film, applications with a scope of resolving environmental problems by replacing petrochemical plastics.