Biopolymer blended films of poly(butylene succinate)/cyclic olefin copolymer with enhanced mechanical strength for packaging applications
Sadia Janjua, Zakir Hussain, Zikriya Khan, Muhammad Arman Liaqat, Malik Adeel Umer
Abstract
Abstract The demand for biodegradable materials is on the rise because humanity is now more concerned about a sustainable lifestyle than ever before. In this regard, we present solution casting synthesized novel biopolymer blended films of poly(butylene succinate)/cyclic olefin copolymer (PBS/COC) for packaging applications. These films were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared microscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), universal tensile testing (ASTM D882 standard), and antibacterial Disc diffusion tests using gram‐negative Escherichia coli ( E.coli ) and gram‐positive Staphylococcus aureus ( S.aureus ) bacteria. The XRD and FTIR revealed the type of bonding to be physical in‐between the constituent polymers; ensuring the biodegradable nature of their blends, while the thickness of films was found to be <100 μm. The SEM, tensile, and antibacterial testing concluded that 30%PBS with 70%COC by weight blending is the best composition; showing a compact/pin‐holes free morphology, the highest strength of 91 MPa, and contact inhibition with E.coli and S.aureus bacteria.