Investigating different properties of anti-microbial nanocomposite packaging films containing organically modified nanoclays

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Food Science, College of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, IRAN

2 Department of Chemical & Petroleum Engineering, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, IRAN

3 Department of Chemical & Petroleum Engineering, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, IRAN

Abstract

Low density polyethylene films incorporating different types of organically modified nanoclays were prepared. Physical, surface morphology and mechanical properties of the films were analyzed by x-ray diffraction pattern, scanning electron microscopy and tensile strength (TS) and length increase until fracture point (E) parameters, respectively. Colony counting method was used to investigate anti-microbial activity of the resulting films. X-ray diffraction pattern showed layered structures for the most of the produced films. It was found that Cloisite 20A nanoclay produce a smooth and uniform surface in the films due to a good compatibility with low density poly ethylene matrix. Mechanical properties of the films were not significantly influenced by the addition of nanoclays into the polymeric matrix, although there was a little improvement. Microbial results showed that Cloisite 15A and 20A films at concentrations of 6% exhibited a good anti-microbial activity. All nanoclays at any concentrations tested in this study showed anti-microbial activity against E. coli.

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References

 
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History

  • Receive Date: 15 October 2014
  • Revise Date: 28 December 2014
  • Accept Date: 08 February 2015

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