Preparation and properties of melt-intercalated linear low density polyethylene/clay nanocomposite films prepared by blow extrusion

Linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE)/clay nanocomposite films with two different types of organoclays (Cloisite® 30B and Cloisite® 20A) were prepared using a melt blow extrusion method and their properties such as optical, tensile, water vapor and oxygen gas barrier, and antimicrobial activity were tested. Apparently the nanocomposite films are smooth, homogeneous, and flexible, but less transparent than the neat LLDPE film. XRD result indicated slightly intercalated nanostructures were formed with both organoclays. Though oxygen barrier properties improved after formation of the nanocomposite, the tensile strength (TS) and water vapor permeability (WVP) were not improved in the nanocomposite films. This is probably due to the lower compatibility between nonpolar, hydrophobic LLDPE polymer matrix and clay nanoparticles. Antimicrobial test showed the LLDPE/Cloisite® 30B nanocomposite film had a bacteriostatic activity against Gram-positive bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes.

► LLDPE/clay nanocomposite films with two different types of organoclays were prepared using a melt blow extrusion method. ► The LLDPE/Cloisite 30B nanocomposite film had a bacteriostatic activity against Gram-positive bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes. ► The nanocomposite films have a high potential for application in food packaging.