Preparation and Properties of LDPE-Thermoplastic Corn Starch-OMMT Nanocomposites for Packaging Applications

In this study, LDPE-Thermoplastic Corn Starch (TPCS) blends containing various amounts of Cloisite®15A (0.5-3wt. %) were prepared by a twin screw extruder. LDPE-grafted maleic anhydride (with constant amount of 3wt. %) was used as a compatibilizer. The mechanical, flow and water absorption properties of all the samples were measured by means of standard methods. The XRD results showed that intercalated structures were achieved in the samples and as C15A content increased, the diffraction peak transferred to lower angles. The melt flow index (MFI) measurements showed that with increasing C15A contents, the MFI values of all the samples decreased. Increase in shear rate and C15A concentration led to decrease and increase in apparent viscosity, respectively. Increment in both ultimate tensile strength and modulus, and a decrement in elongation at break of the samples were obtained with increase in C15A contents. The presence of C15A nanoparticles reduced the water absorption of the samples at a period of immersion time. Susceptibility to biodegradation of the samples after exposure to the environment is expected.

Keywords:

TPCS , Nanocomposite , Biodegradable , XRD , Flow , Mechanical properties , Water Absorption