NANOBIOCOMP

Novel Nano-Reinforced Biodegradable Composites: Design and Characterization

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'The short-running of minerals such as oil and the increasing waste problem are the reasons for the fast growing interest in biopolymers. “Biopolymer” describes on the one hand polymers that are biodegradable and on the other hand plastics synthesized from renewable sources. Ideally, both of those independent properties are to be unified in the same material. However, such “ideal” biopolymers still suffer from poor properties and high prices, which extremely limit their applications and potential to replace “conventional” polymers. The aim of the proposed project is the design and optimized manufacturing of biosynthesized and biodegradable polymers for widespread applications. The very promising poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) - PHBV - is addressed by reinforcing its properties using natural available fillers, such as clay (layered silicate). The resulting nanocomposites will be characterized in detail and new insight regarding their processing-structure-property relationship provided. The results will impact the production process of PHBV and yield optimized PHBV designs for various applications in packaging, agriculture or throw-away-products. These investigations will allow the fellow to acquire excellent expertise in a pioneering research topic, which is of crucial importance for the worldwide efforts to combat the energy and waste problems. In combination with the complementary training, this IEF project will help the applicant to restart her research career, to obtain scientific maturity and to actively participate in shaping future research regarding nanocomposites of biopolymers, which is a rapidly emerging field. Consequently, the IEF perfectly consolidates the fellow’s long-term aim to reach an independent position at a university or research institution in Europe.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

Conventional polymers or plastics are derived from petroleum. Novel biopolymers with enhanced thermal and mechanical properties could provide a sustainable alternative for numerous applications.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

Decreasing natural resources combined with increasing concern about product recyclability and environmental impact have spurred development of biopolymer alternatives that are either bio-based or biodegradable. Although the growth rate for biopolymers in the EU is about 20 % annually, poor mechanical and thermal properties or high cost limit their commercial applicability.

EU-funded scientists investigated two different ways of enhancing properties for applications in food packaging and agriculture within the context of the project 'Novel nano-reinforced biodegradable composites: design and characterization' (NANOBIOCOMP). They employed one bio-based, biodegradable polymer (hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate or PHBV) and one petroleum-based biodegradable one (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate or PBAT). The team investigated the effects of modifying them with various types and percentages of natural clay and blending the two in varying ratios.

Reinforcement of the biopolymers with three percent of organically modified clays (one, three and five were tested) produced the best property profile. Thermal stability, crystallisation behaviour and dynamic mechanical behaviour were evaluated. Biopolymer composites consisting of 50 % PBAT/50 % PHBV demonstrated superior thermal and mechanical properties.

Researchers produced biopolymer composites with half PBAT, half PHBV and reinforced them with three percent of organically modified clays. An antimicrobial agent (propolis) was used as filler and compared to a commercial agent for reference. The materials were characterised for stability in the face of varying temperature, moisture, microbial and weathering conditions.

NANOBIOCOMP data could help guide manufacturers in the design and use of novel biopolymers for packaging or agricultural foils with enhanced sustainability. Knowledge-based engineering should significantly improve biopolymer properties, enhancing commercial uptake and thus global impact.