PLA-SiO2 nanocomposite films: morphological and mechanical properties and specific end-use characteristics

Objective(s): Application of eco-friendly materials like poly lactic acid (PLA) is increasing, to reduce environmental pollutions. In this research, the effect of silicon dioxide 1%, 3% and 5% nanoparticles on morphological, mechanical and chemicals interaction (FTIR) of PLA film was studied. Materials and Methods: Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used, to consider morphological structure of nanocomposites. Mechanical characteristics of films, measurement of tensile strength, elongation at break point and Yong modulus also were considered by using tensile device and ASTM D 882. The FT-IR spectrum of films with PERKIN ELMER 1650, FT-IR spectrophotometer was recorded. Results: Morphological evaluation of PLA composite strings shows desirable and steady distribution of nanoparticles for the sample with 1 percent weight of Silica volume and by increasing Silica contents from 1 to 5 percent, nanoparticles start to form mass. Comparison of average of tensile resistance, elongation at break point and Young modulus in pure PLA film with PLA film including 1% SiO2 shows insignificance of average of these groups (P>0.05). In the consideration, FTIR shows proper distribution of nano-SiO2 dioxide in film composites and connection is created and doesn’t have difference with pure PLA. Conclusion: Performed considerations show that PLA films containing SiO2 have proper potential for application in packaging mechanically.