Effects of halloysite content on the thermo-mechanical performances of composite bioplastics

• Published in: Applied clay science 2020-02, Vol.185, p.105416, Article 105416
• Main Authors: Lisuzzo, Lorenzo, Cavallaro, Giuseppe, Milioto, Stefana, Lazzara, Giuseppe
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bioplastics; Biopolymer; DMA; Halloysite; Nanocomposites; TGA
• ISSN: 0169-1317; 1872-9053
• DOI: 10.1016/j.clay.2019.105416

The aim of this study is the design and preparation of Mater-Bi/halloysite nanocomposite materials that could be employed as bioplastics alternative to the petroleum derived products. The biocomposite materials at variable halloysite content (from 0 to 30 wt%) were prepared by using the solvent casting method. We investigated the mechanical behaviour and the thermal properties of the prepared nanocomposites in order to estimate their suitability as biocompatible packaging materials. The thermo-mechanical characteristics were correlated to the nanocomposites' morphologies, which were studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). As a general result, the physico-chemical performances of Mater-Bi were improved by the presence of small amounts of nanotubes, which evidenced a homogenous distribution in the polymer matrix. The strongest enhancements of the thermal stability and tensile properties were achieved for Mater-Bi/halloysite 10 wt%. A further addition of nanotubes determined the worsening of both thermal stability and mechanical behaviour. The attained knowledge represents the starting step for the development of packaging films composed by Mater-Bi and halloysite nanotubes. •Mater-Bi/halloysite nanocomposite films with variable filler content were prepared by casting methods•The thermal and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites were affected by their specific composition•Mater-Bi/halloysite 10 wt% evidenced the most promising performances in agreement with its uniformity•Mater-Bi/halloysite 30 wt% exhibited lower mechanical and thermal performances respect to pure Mater-Bi