Creation of synergistic effect among raw materials in biodegradable films with novel, designed ZnO particles

Abstract

The use of biodegradable polymers in packaging and wound dressing holds great potential for sustainability and a green economy. However, many applications also require high mechanical, thermal and UV-barrier properties. Although nano-metal oxide powders with different morphologies have been tested to meet expectations, the problem of toxicity and uncontrolled agglomeration could not be eliminated. A systematic study of the type of raw materials used and the effects of the amount used remained incomplete. Therefore, the research objective of this study is to interpret the effects of the type of raw materials and the amount of use on the mechanism of synergistic action in achieving the desired properties. The results show the importance of the amount of PVA-glycerol and the molar weight of chitosan for MicNo (R)-ZnO powder doped biodegradable films with new morphology; that includes the advantages of both micron and nano size, to have more effective UV-barrier, mechanical and thermal properties.