Work

Poly(Hydroxybutyrate‐ Co ‐Hydroxyvalerate)/Thermoplastic Starch Blends for Application in Biodegradable Mulch Films

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Poly(hydroxybutyrate‐ co ‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)/thermoplastic starch (TPS) blends were produced for application in biodegradable mulch films. Pure films and blends in the proportions of PHBV (P) and TPS (T) (80P20T, 70P30T, and 60P40T wt.:wt.) were prepared by melt mixing. SEM micrographs revealed a two‐phase morphology of the blends, with the change from droplets to co‐continuous phases as the percentage of TPS increased. Blends were more flexible compared to PHBV film. Young's modulus decreased by up to 67% versus pure PHBV with increased amount of TPS and a slight increase in elongation at break was observed. All blends were less hydrophilic compared to pure TPS, with a decrease in the rate of water vapor permeation, water and moisture absorption. Partial solubilization of TPS in the blends occurred after 14 days in water, but solubilization was lower than the pure TPS. A lower melting temperature was achieved, especially at the 70P30T ratio (157°C) compared to PHBV (167°C), promoting a lower processing temperature. Therefore, this set of results indicates that the properties of the materials might be adjusted for the intended application according to the blend composition.

Source: Polymer Engineering and Science

DOI: 10.1002/pen.70464

Authors: Pâmela R. Oliveira, Tânia Laís F. da Silva, Cristiano S. Teixeira, Tales S. Daitx, Larissa N. Carli

Institutions: Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul

Language: English

Topic: biodegradable polymer synthesis and properties

Subfield: Biomaterials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,270