Physicochemical properties of bioplastic based on hydroxyethylcellulose and polyvinylpyrrolidone blend

Abstract

The aim of this study is to develop a bioplastic based on hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) and polyvinilpyrrolidone (PVP) which is applied as packaging materials. The effect of incorporation of PVP into HEC on the physicochemical properties of its blend films are investigated. The FTIR and DSC analysis denote that incorporation of PVP induce the intermolecular hydrogen bonds to occur more intensely. The XRD diffractograms indicate that the incorporation of PVP reduces the crystallinity of the film. The mechanical properties of the films become greater as the PVP content increases, and the optimum composition of HEC/PVP is at 5:3 mass ratio with a tensile strength of 34.8±3.4 MPa; elongation at break 104.3±4.9 %; and an elastic modulus of 0.10±0.02 GPa. The SEM and DSC analysis signify an excellent compatibility and miscibility between HEC and PVP. The incorporation of PVP increase the transparency and hydrophilicity of the film. The water vapor transmission rate of the films is relatively unchanged due to the incorporation of PVP. The TGA and DSC analysis reveal that the incorporation of PVP increases the thermal stability and the glass transition temperature of the film. This bioplastic film could be an alternative for biodegradable packaging material.