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Gelatin-based blends and composites. Morphological and thermal mechanical characterization.
E Chiellini1, P Cinelli, E Grillo Fernandes
1Department of Chemistry & Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Risorgimento 35, 56126 Pisa, Italy. chlmeo@dcci.unipi.it
Biomacromolecules
|November 17, 2001
Summary
Pharmaceutical gelatin scraps were transformed into biodegradable films by blending with poly(vinyl alcohol) or sugar cane bagasse. These novel films exhibit promising thermal and mechanical properties for mulching applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Gelatin, a natural polymer from renewable resources, is extensively used across industries.
- Pharmaceutical gelatin waste presents an opportunity for sustainable material development.
- Biodegradable films are sought after for environmentally friendly applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To valorize pharmaceutical gelatin waste by creating biodegradable films.
- To enhance the mechanical properties of gelatin films using polymer blending and natural fiber reinforcement.
- To evaluate the suitability of these films for agricultural mulching applications.
Main Methods:
- Gelatin scraps were processed into films via casting.
- Blends of gelatin with poly(vinyl alcohol) and sugar cane bagasse were prepared.
- Glutaraldehyde was used as a cross-linking agent.
- Material characterization included SEM, TGA, DSC, DMTA, and tensile testing.
Main Results:
- Gelatin-sugar cane bagasse blends demonstrated good interfacial adhesion and practical mechanical properties up to 20% bagasse content.
- Glutaraldehyde cross-linking significantly improved film elongation, particularly above 1% concentration.
- The cast films exhibited favorable thermal and mechanical characteristics.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable films derived from gelatin waste, reinforced with sugar cane bagasse and cross-linked with glutaraldehyde, are feasible.
- These materials show potential as effective biodegradable, self-fertilizing mulching films for agriculture.