Optimizing PVA/Chitosan Films with Acid-Functionalized MWCNTs: A Multifaceted Study on Performance Enhancement

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Biodegradable polymer films like Poly(vinyl alcohol)/chitosan (PVA/CS) are promising but often require property enhancement.
• Improving dispersion and interfacial interactions of nanofillers is crucial for effective reinforcement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of acid-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (f-MWCNTs) on PVA/CS biodegradable films.
• To understand how surface functionalization of carbon nanotubes affects film properties.

Main Methods:

• Solution casting was used to fabricate PVA/CS films reinforced with f-MWCNTs.
• Characterization included FTIR, SEM, XRD, dielectric measurements, and mechanical testing.

Main Results:

• FTIR confirmed strong interactions between PVA/CS and f-MWCNTs.
• SEM showed homogeneous dispersion at low f-MWCNT loadings.
• Mechanical strength increased, while elongation at break decreased, indicating enhanced stiffness.
• Dielectric constant and thermal conductivity were improved.
• Swelling and water solubility decreased, suggesting enhanced structural compactness.

Conclusions:

• Surface functionalization of MWCNTs is key to improving dispersion and interfacial adhesion in PVA/CS films.
• f-MWCNTs act as effective nanofillers, simultaneously enhancing multiple properties of biodegradable films.
• These nanocomposite films show potential for applications in sustainable packaging, flexible electronics, sensors, and membranes.