Production and characterization of starch‐based films reinforced by ramie nanofibers (Boehmeria nivea)

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn this study, the use of cellulose nanofibers from ramie, a plant species with important characteristics of reinforcement, was investigated in the production of bio‐based polymer films. A central composite rotatable design was applied to produce the films, analyze the effects of cassava starch, glycerol, and nanofibers content on their properties, obtain mathematical models, response surface plots, and determine an optimum composition. The films produced were characterized by mechanical properties, water vapor permeability (WVP), solubility, and opacity. Microstructure and thermal behavior were also evaluated. The ramie nanofibers content had a positive effect on mechanical and barrier properties, as it increased tensile strength by 207.9%, and decreased WVP and solubility by 52.9 and 72.9%, respectively. Furthermore, the obtained films exhibited homogeneous and cohesive structures, which encourages the use of ramie nanofibers as a reinforcement material in the production of green plastics. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47919.