Preparation and Characterization of Low Density Polyethylene-Chitosan Nanoparticles Biocomposite as a Source of Biodegradable Plastics

Abstract

Proper incorporation of natural polymers such as chitosan, starch, or cellulose in the matrix of non-degradable polymers has been proposed to bring about a possible lasting solution to the menace caused by non-degradable plastics in the environment. Biodegradable composite films of low-density polyethylene-chitosan nanoparticles (LDPE/CHNP) has been prepared by solvent casting method. The physiochemical, thermal, biodegradability and microbial inhibition test of the biocomposite have also been investigated to optimize the prepared composite. Physiochemical, thermal, and microbial inhibition rate has been found to increase with increase in chitosan nanoparticles (CHNP) loading in the prepared matrix. The mechanical studies showed that the tensile strength and elastic modulus increased with increasing loading of chitosan nanoparticles. The improvement in the mechanical properties have been attributed to the compatibility of the composite. The prepared LDPE/CHNP biocomposite film with 15% chitosan nanoparticles showed maximum elastic modulus of 23.10 and tensile strength of 3.52, as well as the best dispersion of particles as revealed by the morphological studies of the composite films. The result of the biodegradation study showed that the degradation efficiency and rate increased in CHNP loading with 20% CHNP loading having the maximum degradation efficiency of 50% and rate 0.12 g/d after 21days. The biocomposite film prepared has proved to be degradable, having antimicrobial properties, thereby it could act as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional non-degradable plastics and could be applied in food packaging, fuel cell and wastewater treatment.