Abstract
AbstractThe structural and mechanical characteristics of polymeric biocomposites based on calcium lactate (CL) and either partially (88 mol%) or fully (98 mol%) hydrolyzed poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) were studied using optical microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy equipped with attenuated total reflectance accessory, water content determination, and differential scanning calorimetry. In addition, the moisture absorption effect on the mechanical properties of the biocomposites was tested in this work. The results reveal that CL is a suitable modifier for both types of PVA. However, a more efficient enhancement of uniform shape and size distribution of CL particles within the PVA matrix was noticed in fully hydrolyzed matrix at low water contents. It is in agreement with glass transition temperature's observations. The samples conditioned at 50% of relative humidity (RH) showed decrease in E modulus and tensile strength in comparison with the material stored below 20% RH. Nevertheless, the enhancement of tensile properties, because of the modification with CL, was still noticeable especially for the partially hydrolyzed PVA‐based biocomposites. The optimum concentration of the modifier was estimated on the basis of the obtained results. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
