Effects of filler type and content on mechanical, thermal, and physical properties of carrageenan biocomposite films

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of various fillers on the properties of carrageenan, a natural polymer derived from red seaweed. Despite its potential for enhanced biocomposite film development, carrageenan faces challenges related to strength. The incorporation of nanoclay into the carrageenan film resulted in a significant increase in film thickness from 0.026 to 0.068 mm. The UV light transmission value for the carrageenan film alone was measured at 30.9 %, whereas films containing 5 wt% of Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES), and nanoclay exhibited reduced transmission values of 23 %, 18 %, and 1 %, respectively. Notably, the tensile strength of the unfilled carrageenan film was 38.4 MPa, which increased to 38.6, 57, and 60 MPa upon the addition of 3 wt% of nanoclay, APTES, and TEOS fillers, respectively. All fillers contributed to improved tensile strength, with TEOS demonstrating the highest enhancement. The optimal filler content was determined to be 3 wt%. Regarding thermal properties, films containing TEOS displayed higher thermal stability compared to those with APTES, while films incorporating nanoclay exhibited the lowest stability. Findings provide insights into the effects of different fillers on the mechanical, physical and thermal properties of carrageenan films, supporting the development of improved biocomposite materials suitable for application in food packaging.