Robust biodegradable chitosan film reinforced cellulose isolated from straw waste

Abstract

Chitosan-based films have lower mechanical characteristics, thermal stability, and barrier properties as compared to synthetic polymers, limiting their applicability. The incorporation of cellulose is another interesting approach to enhance the thermomechanical and barrier properties of chitosan-based films. Biodegradable films made of chitosan (CH) and cellulose (CL) were created and described. Surface roughness, structure, mechanical properties such as tensile strength (TS) and elongation at break (EB), water uptake, and biodegradation tests of the CHCEL blend films are all presented.The addition of cellulose to the chitosan matrix improved mechanical strength despite reduced water absorption. After 15 days of burial in various cellulose contents, the film is fully biodegradable with no crumbs. Based on the findings of this study, CHCEL composite films prepared through this research have a high potential for implementation as sustainable food packaging films.