Physical Characterization of Biodegradable Films Based on Chitosan, Polyvinyl Alcohol and Opuntia Mucilage

Blanca M. Dominguez-Martinez, Hector E. Martínez-Flores, Jose De J. Berrios, Caio G. Otoni, Delilah F. Wood, Gonzalo Velazquez

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

44 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study aimed to develop and characterize biodegradable films containing mucilage, chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) in different concentrations. The films were prepared by casting on glass plates using glycerol as plasticizer. Mechanical properties, water vapor and oxygen barrier, as well as the interaction with water, were measured. The compatibility of the film-forming components and the uniformity of the films were determined by zeta potential and SEM, respectively. The glycerol and mucilage allowed obtaining more hydrophilic films. The barrier properties of the films made from 100 % chitosan were similar to composed films containing PVA up to 40 %. The results of this study suggest that the interaction between chitosan and mucilage could increase water vapor permeability. The films prepared from either 100 % chitosan or PVA showed a more hydrophobic behavior as compared to the composed films. The films were homogenous since no boundary or separation of components was observed, indicating a good compatibility of the components in the films.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)683-691
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Polymers and the Environment
Volume25
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Sep 2017

Keywords

  • Chitosan
  • Films
  • Nopal mucilage
  • Polyvinyl alcohol

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