Preparation and Characterization of Polymer Blends/ Kaolinite Nanoclay

Abstract

     In this research, we prepared a polymer blend of polyvinylalcohol (PVA)/carrageenan/kaolinite by means of the solution cast approach. The composition of the blend was PVA in 1 gm by weight with 0.2 gm carrageenan as a plasticizer. The ratio of nanoclay varied between 1 and 5 wt%. Different properties were investigated in this study such as water vapor permeability, hardness, tear strength, color stability, thermal stability, and antibacterial activity. Water vapor permeability was decreased with increasing the ratio of nanoclay, while the values of hardness, tear strength, color stability, and thermal stability were increased. Also, the antibacterial activity examination with two types of bacteria, e.g. Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram negative (Klebsiella pneumonia), showed inhibition zone diameter which was increased with increasing nanoclay ratio. Moreover, it was found that nanoclay has the ability to kill both Gram positive and negative kinds of bacteria. It was found that the preparation of such films is suitable for food packaging.