Preparation of cellulose/polyvinyl alcohol biocomposite films using 1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride

This study has been focused on developing cellulose/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a biocomposite film, pretreated with 1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([bmim]Cl). The dissolved polymers were blended and their biocomposite films including cellulose and cellulose/PVA were prepared. The effect of PVA composition with cellulose was evaluated by comparing the physical, mechanical, chemical and thermal characteristics of produced films with neat cellulosic film. The results showed that the ionic liquid had a great capability in dissolving the polymers. Furthermore, in composition of the raw cellulose some chemical bonds were incorporated between the two components. Water uptake, thickness swelling and water vapor permeability of blend films were increased comparing to cellulosic film. Mechanical strength and Young's modulus of the films made of cellulose/PVA were decreased while the strain at break was increased. The optical transparency and thermal properties of the blend films were almost the same as neat cellulosic film. This work demonstrated a promising route for the preparation of biodegradable green composites. In addition, this biocomposite film is composed of sustainable biodegradable resources, which is suitable for release to the environment. The biocomposite films showed good optical transparency, thermal stabilities properties. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.