Preparation of formyl cellulose and its enhancement effect on the mechanical and barrier properties of polylactic acid films

Cellulose was modified by formic acid to prepare formyl cellulose (FC). The amount of groups in FC adjusted controlling the reaction time, temperature, and concentration. Then, used reinforce polylactic (PLA) films prepared solution casting. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows that long rod-like particles were broken into short rods after formylation introduction made PLA surface rougher. mechanical properties PLA/FC improved inclusion FC. Compared pure film, composite film with 1 wt% (containing 15.79% groups) showed a 48.59% increase tensile strength 346% Young's modulus. addition also resulted better water barrier properties. moisture absorption capacity vapor permeability 40.56% 51.43% lower than those pure-PLA film. enhancement for composites could be ascribed compatibility between hydrophobic formate groups. developed this work highly potential food packaging.