Production and characterization of starch‐based films reinforced by ramie nanofibers (Boehmeria nivea)

Abstract

In this study, the use of cellulose nanofibers from ramie, a plant species with important characteristics of reinforcement, was investigated in the production of bio-based polymer films. A central composite rotatable design was applied to produce the films, analyze the effects of cassava starch, glycerol, and nanofibers content on their properties, obtain mathematical models, response surface plots, and determine an optimum composition. The films produced were characterized by mechanical properties, water vapor permeability (WVP), solubility, and opacity. Microstructure and thermal behavior were also evaluated. The ramie nanofibers content had a positive effect on mechanical and barrier properties, as it increased tensile strength by 207.9%, and decreased WVP and solubility by 52.9 and 72.9%, respectively. Furthermore, the obtained films exhibited homogeneous and cohesive structures, which encourages the use of ramie nanofibers as a reinforcement material in the production of green plastics.

Development of active cassava starch films reinforced with waste from industrial wine production and enriched with pink pepper extract

“…Caetano et al 39 showed a large and significant increase in film thickness from 124 μm to 193 μm when amount of oil increased from 0 to 2% (w/v). Other authors have also reported the increment in thickness adding extracts and fibers 1,11,40–42 …”

Prospects of Polymeric Nanofibers Loaded with Essential Oils for Biomedical and Food-Packaging Applications

“…The low water-contact angle of control films with nanofiber cellulose and films without the TTO and nanofiber cellulose was due to the cassava starch amylases’ chemical affinity with water [ 171 , 172 ]. Actually, the cellulose fibers were less hygroscopic than starch, which led to the weakening of the amylaceous matrix hydrophilicity, and therefore the film solubility [ 173 ]. Despite the oils’ lipidic characteristics, the solubility of films with TTO was somewhat more substantial than the solubility of control films (nanofiber cellulose).…”

A Contribution to Improve Barrier Properties and Reduce Swelling Ratio of κ-Carrageenan Film from the Incorporation of Guar Gum or Locust Bean Gum

“…Natural polysaccharides have received increased attention due to their renewability, biodegradability and film-forming properties [ 2 ]. Marques et al prepared cassava starch-based films that can be used for packaging in the food industry [ 3 ]. The calcium alginate film loading ciprofloxacin potentially healed infected foot ulcers [ 4 ].…”