On the Effect of Nanosilver Reinforcement on the Mechanical, Physical, and Antimicrobial Properties of Polyethylene Blown Films

Abstract

The simultaneous effect of silver nanoparticles on the antibacterial, mechanical, and physical properties of polyethylene (PE) films is evaluated. For this aim, uniaxial tensile, film rupture, and permeability tests and X-ray diffraction analysis were conducted. The biocidal performance against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria was also assessed. The results show that reinforcements with as little as 1 wt% nanosilver provided absolute antibacterial performance, while generally maintaining the mechanical properties. The reinforcement causes noticeable alterations in the crystallization behavior, which is manifested in the variations of gas permeability of the PE films.