Influence of alkali treated cellulose nanoparticles filled starch-based bioplastic films and their effect on thermal and mechanical properties

In this study, structural, thermal, mechanical and water uptake properties on the influence of alkaline treated cellulose nanoparticles (CNPs) filled starch-based bioplastic film is examined. Starch-based bioplastic films filled with alkaline treated CNPs at various concentration (0 to 5 wt%) were prepared by solution casting method. Thermal properties of film series are examined by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) method. Alkaline treated CNPs addition induces crystallization to the bioplastic film. Degradation onset temperature (Don), 10% mass loss (T10) and 50% mass loss (T50) values show the positive effect of CNPs addition into the biopolymer matrix with improved thermal stability. Tensile result shows that about 2.5 times increased is observed in 2 wt% CNPs filled bioplastic films. Water uptake result shows that the alkaline treated CNPs starch-based bioplastic film limit the biopolymer dissolution time and extended the breaking down of the bioplastic film. Leading to about 2.5 times reduced equilibrium water mass uptake is observed in 3 wt% CNPs filled bioplastic film when compared with unfilled bioplastic film.