Preparation and characterization of extruded PBAT/organoclay films

In this paper, we investigate the influence of organoclay identity and content on the tensile properties, gas permeation characteristics and biodegradation of extruded poly(butylene adipate)-co-(butylene terephthalate) (PBAT)/organophilic clay films. Cloisite C10A and C30B organoclays were used as fillers with loading levels of 0, 1 and 3 wt%. Processing was carried out in an internal mixer attached to a torque rheometer operating at 60 rpm and 160 degrees C for 10 min. Extruded flat films of the processed materials were obtained and their tensile properties were determined. Biodegradation was determined by weight loss as a function of burial time in fertile soil. Composites degraded more slowly than the matrix, which was attributed to organoclay antimicrobial properties. Torque rheometry indicated more intense degradation on the composites with higher organoclay content, particularly C30B. Although the influence of clay identity on the tensile properties of the films was minimal, their thickness increased and permeability and biodegradation decreased with clay content, particularly for C30B modified films. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.