Effect of the bentonite filler on structure and properties of composites based on hydroxyethyl cellulose

Abstract

Granulometric test and morphological analysis of the bentonite particles were performed using laser diffraction and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption–desorption techniques. Bentonite particles were immobilized into the hydroxyethyl cellulose matrix by mechanical dispersion, and composite films were obtained. The effect of concentration of the filling agent on structure and tensile properties of composites was revealed. Data on the nature of interaction between hydroxyethyl cellulose and bentonite after the modification of polymer were obtained by IR spectroscopy. It was found that the hydroxyethyl cellulose/bentonite composite films showed an antimicrobial effect against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, as well against fungi association. Keywords: Hydroxyethyl cellulose/bentonite composites, X-ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy, Tensile properties, Antimicrobial activity