Mechanical and Barrier Properties of Biodegradable Films Made from Chitosan and Natural Fiber Blends

Abstract

In the present work, biodegradable film blends of chitosan with fibers were used to prepare by mixing solution and film casting. Film blends were also prepared by increasing the weight ratio of chitosan. The main aim of these blends is to improve the mechanical properties of chitosan by blending with biodegradable natural fibers. Mechanical properties of the obtained film blends were assessed by tensile modulus. Swelling test, scanning electronic microscopy and biodegradability studies were used to analyze the influence of the incorporation of fibers in the film properties. The incorporation of fibers to chitosan tensile modulus of the films decreased but 2.5 grams chitosan is showing good result compared to 3 grams chitosan. However, Water absorption properties and biodegradability of films were also decreased. Scanning electronic microscopy showing good results. Mechanical properties revealed that chitosan and fiber blends are inconsistent.