Mechanical Properties of a Pectin Material for Coating Natural Fibers used in Agricultural Applications

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the mechanical properties: percentage of elongation (%) and tensile strength (MPa) of pectin films (4% and 6% w/v), mineral oil (2% and 6% p/v) and glycerol (3% and 6% w/v), prepared by the casting method. A factorial design 23 with optimization of multiple responses was used. The optimal concentrations were: pectin (5.0% w/ v), glycerol (4.5% w/v) and oil (4.0% w/v), was obtained elongation 33.12 ± 4.39%, tensile strength 18.09 ± 2.98 MPa, rupture effort of 7.13 ± 0.60 N and Young's modulus of 105.04 ± 13.94 MPa. The glycerol provided elongation, while the pectin and oil improve the tensile strength. The material has been developed thinking about its possible application as a coating of natural fibers, since this new material can improve the stability of the fiber and its mechanical properties.