Evaluation of environmentally compatible bio sheets for containerization using thermomechanical and physical-chemical techniques

Most of the materials used in packing of consumables and goods are non-sustainable and contribute to the major portion of accumulated municipal solid waste in the world. To confront this ecological challenge, researchers focus on developing sustainable sheets for packing applications. In the present investigation, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and different weight percentages (1–5 wt%) of Licuala Grandis sheath base fiber powder (LGSBFP) was employed as a reinforcing material to generate sustainable sheets using solution casting process. Several techniques, were employed to evaluate the effect of LGSBFP on PVA matrix such as interaction between the functional groups, crystallinity, thermal stability, surface morphology, hydrophilic and biodegradation characteristics. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed effective interaction between the hydrogen molecules of PVA and LGSBFP in the fabricated sustainable sheets. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements recorded a 23.85 % decrease in crystallite size on reinforcing 4 w.t% LGSBFP in PVA matrix. Experiments on mechanical characteristics noted a 107.33 % and 200.86 % increase in tensile strength and modulus accordingly for PVA/LGSBFP sustainable sheets compared to neat PVA. The thermal stability of PVA/LGSBFP sustainable sheet up to 136°C, acceptable hydrophobic and biodegradation characteristics suggest it as a sustainable option in packing applications.