Synthesis of Green Hybrid Composite Films for Packaging Applications

Abstract

In the study reported here, green hybrid composite films were synthesized using poly vinyl alcohol/barley husk/kaolinite clay and the solution casting method. Mechanical, optical, physical and degradation studies were performed. The properties of various hybrid composite films were compared with conventional materials used for making composites. On comparison, it was found that the green hybrid films showed improvement in various properties. With increase in barley husk content from 5% to 25%, water resistivity of films decreased, whereas lower water absorption was found with the incorporation of kaolinite clay. However, the composite films remain transparent with the addition of kaolinite at low content. Mechanical behaviour of the composite films was considerably enhanced with the addition of kaolinite and barley husk. Scanning micrographs showed cracks and hollows on the surface of films after biodegradation. Biodegradation studies showed that the composite films containing barley husk had higher biodegradability than those incorporating kaolinite clay. Green hybrid material can therefore replace conventional material with enhanced physical and mechanical properties.