Development of new materials based on polymeric reinforced and self-reinforced biocomposites from natural resources

Abstract

The present thesis has focused on the development and study of biodegradable polymeric biocomposites obtained from natural resources for food packaging industry. Two types of biopolymer matrix i.e. poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) and potato starch and two types of filler i.e. cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and PHBV microparticles were used. Fillers were introduced into the matrices with different methods including solvent cast film, melt mixing and extrusion. In this regard, two approaches of reinforcing and self-reinforcing were followed. As a result, three different compositions were developed namely PHBV/CNC and starch/PHBV microparticles in the reinforcing approach and PHBV/PHBV microparticles in the self-reinforcing approach. The main aim was to produce biocomposites with modified thermal, mechanical and morphological properties and also with higher crystallinity and barrier properties. Results showed that in all cases, the filler acted as nucleating agent inside the matrix. Consequently, biocomposites with improved properties were obtained which made these ecological materials to be good candidates for packaging applications.