Heliyon (Aug 2019)
Characterization and performance analysis of composite bioplastics synthesized using titanium dioxide nanoparticles with corn starch
Abstract
Plastic is an amazing material, and wonderful invention, it has changed the world. Plastic is used everywhere and every day across the globe. But despite its varied uses, its disposal has threatened the environment. Biodegradable plastics can meet these needs and can easily be disposed to the environment. This work focuses on the characterization and performance analysis of starch bioplastics and composite bioplastic to reduce the plastic pollution by its various uses. TGA, DSC, SEM, FTIR, and surface roughness analyses were used to characterize, the mechanical properties, thermal properties and the morphology of the starch bioplastics and composite bioplastic. Starch bioplastics were fabricated using starch vinegar and glycerol. Composite bioplastics ware fabricated using starch, vinegar, glycerol and titanium dioxide. The addition of titanium dioxide improved the tensile strength of the bioplastics from 3.55 to 3.95 MPa and decreased elongation from 88% to 62%. According to Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) Test, the melting point (Tm) and Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) significantly affected by the presence of titanium dioxide (TiO2). The degree of nano-composite crystallinity was formed by the strong interfacial interaction between the titanium dioxide nanoparticles and the amorphous region of the chain. The decomposition temperature of starch bioplastic was increased by mixing with titanium dioxide nanoparticles. The results gained from SEM showed that better compatible morphologies in composite bioplastic compared to starch bioplastic for its fewer voids, holes, and crack. The functional group O–H, C–H, C=O, and C–O indicate the formation of starch bioplastics and composite bioplastics has already occurred which was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. The result is also verified with the available results of other researchers. Therefore, composite bioplastic is a modified elevation of a starch bioplastic with a modified upgrade feature. It can be an alternative to existing conventional plastic, especially packaging applications.
