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Development and Characterization of Polylactic Acid (PLA)-Based Nanocomposites Used for Food Packaging
Andrei Moldovan1, Stanca Cuc2, Doina Prodan2
1Department Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Development Entrepreneurship, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, 400641 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
Polymers
|July 14, 2023
Summary
This study developed new polylactic acid (PLA) nanocomposites for food packaging by blending PLA with bio-based nanoadditives and plasticizers. The S3 composite showed the best mechanical strength and uniform filler distribution, making PLA suitable for biodegradable packaging.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable polymer with potential for food packaging applications.
- Enhancing PLA's properties through nanoadditives and plasticizers is crucial for developing advanced packaging materials.
- Current food packaging solutions often lack biodegradability and sustainability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create novel PLA-based nanocomposites for next-generation food packaging.
- To investigate the effects of bio-nanoadditives (Tonsil®, Aerosil®) and plasticizers (Sorbitan oleate, Proviplast) on PLA properties.
- To evaluate the performance of different PLA composite formulations for food packaging suitability.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of four PLA composite mixtures (S1, S2, S3, S4) with varying nanoadditives and plasticizers.
- Characterization using FT-IR spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), mechanical testing (tensile, bending), and saline solution absorption.
- Microstructural analysis via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).
Main Results:
- FT-IR confirmed proper filler dispersion in the PLA matrix; DSC indicated good thermal stability.
- SEM and AFM revealed S3 composite had the most compact and uniform filler distribution.
- S3 composite exhibited the highest diametral tensile strength, while S4 showed the weakest.
- S1 composite displayed the best bending strength at 18°C, whereas S4 had the lowest.
- S4 demonstrated superior liquid penetration resistance, while S1 was more susceptible to liquid infiltration.
Conclusions:
- PLA composites with tailored nanoadditives and plasticizers are viable for biodegradable and disposable food packaging.
- The S3 composite formulation offers a promising balance of mechanical strength and filler distribution.
- Optimizing filler proportions is key to achieving desired properties for specific food packaging applications.
