Improvement of the mechanical and barrier properties of methylcellulose-based films by treatment with HEMA and silane monomers under gamma radiation

Abstract

Methylcellulose (MC)-based films were prepared by casting from its 1% aqueous solution containing 0.5% vegetable oil, 0.25% glycerol and 0.025% Tween®-80. Puncture strength (PS), puncture deformation (PD) and water vapor permeability (WVP) of the films were found to be 147N/mm, 3.46mm, and 6.34gmm/m2daykPa, respectively. The monomer, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) (0.1–1%, w/w) was incorporated into the MC-based solution and films were prepared by casting. Films were then exposed to gamma radiation (5–25kGy) and it revealed that 1% HEMA containing films showed the highest PS values (282N/mm at 10kGy). Silane monomer (3-aminopropyl tri-ethoxy silane) (0.1–1%, w/w) was also added into the MC-based films and were found to improve the strength of the films significantly. In comparison between HEMA and silane treatment onto MC-based films, it was observed that silane performed better strength and barrier properties. Surface morphology of the monomer treated films was examined by scanning electron microscopy and suggested better appearance than MC-based film.