Preparation and characterization of PVA-Ge/PEG-400 biodegradable plastic blend films for packaging applications

Biodegradable poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-Gelatin (Ge)/polyethylene glycol-400 (PEG-400) films were prepared with various mass% of PEG-400 with respect to PVA. These films were then cross-linked using formaldehyde to enhance the barrier properties. Physico-chemical characteristics of the developed films were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), universal testing machine (UTM), scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and contact angle analyzer. In order to check the efficiency of the developed films for packaging applications, barrier properties such as water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), moisture retention capability (MRC), swelling measurement and film solubility were analyzed. FTIR and WAXD confirmed the cross linking between the PVA and Ge components, and the effect of hydrogen bonds on the crystallization. Formaldehyde cross-linking has immensely influenced the tensile strength and elongation at break of the films. Further, it has also improved the film solubility and water barrier properties when compared to uncross linked films. These biodegradable films can be used in the field of packaging as a material to produce bags for daily use. [Display omitted]