Preparation and properties of chitosan/poly (vinyl alcohol) nanocomposite films reinforced with rod-like sepiolite

Biodegradable polymer/clay nanocomposites have aroused intense research interests due to their many attractive properties. Sepiolite (SP) has been used as reinforce filler of nanocomposites for its available abundance, thermal stability, higher mechanical strength, and low cost. To evaluate the effect of SP as a nanofiller on the properties of nanocomposites, we prepared a series of nanocomposites by a solution casting method with SP introduced into chitosan (CS)/poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix. The results indicated that the mechanical properties of nanocomposites were improved sharply with an increase in SP loading. The moisture uptake (MU) of nanocomposites was decreased with introducing SP into the polymer matrix.

► SP could be well dispersed in a CS/PVA matrix by a solution casting method.
► SP could improve the mechanical properties of nanocomposite films.
► MU of nanocomposites films decreases with the increase in SP content from 0% to 4%.