Study of plasmochemical processing effect on the properties of polymer films based on polyvinylchloride

Abstract

Subject of Research.The paper deals with characteristics study of polymer composites based on commercially available polyvinyl chloride and biopolymer filler pectin in various weight ratios (1.5 and 10 mass%) for the usage as biodegradable packaging. Method. Biopolymer composite films were obtained by rolling at the temperature of 165-170 ℃and pre-mixing of all composition components with a paddle stirrer at a stirring speed of 6000 rpm for four minutes. The introduction of natural materials into the polymer matrix facilitates the decomposition of plastics during disposal, and the processing of composite polymeric materials for five and ten minutes by low-temperature plasma in argon: oxygen modifies the surface of the material, ensuring access of microorganisms for biodegradation. Samples of composites were studied by the methods of infrared Fourier spectroscopy and optical microscopy, depending on the content of the filler and etching time of the samples. Main Results. The effect of plasma-chemical treatment on the surface of polymeric composites has been experimentally proved; an increase in roughness, craters and other discontinuities may be explained by structural changes confirmed by infrared spectra. It is shown that composites containing 1% by weight of pectin are subjected to the greatest degree of material oxidation. Practical Relevance. The resulting biopolymer composites can be used as a package that decomposes during disposal and does not harm the environment. The introduction of a biodegradable component, natural polysaccharide of pectin, in small amounts does not change the chemical structure of the polymer material. Plasma-chemical treatment can be used as a method for surface treatment of industrial polymer materials before disposal.