Structure and functional properties of aluminum hydroxide reinforced bamboo-derived cellulose acetate composite film for biodegradable packaging

Biodegradable plastics are gaining popularity as environmentally friendly functional materials. This study focuses on the preparation of aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH) 3 ) reinforced cellulose acetate composite films using a cost-effective approach. The process involves synthesizing bamboo-derived cellulose acetate (BDCA), dissolving it in tetrahydrofuran with glycerol as a plasticizer, and incorporating Al(OH) 3 particles into the casting solution to reinforce the cellulose acetate film. Analyses on microstructure and characteristics of the films were conducted through various techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD), water contact angle measurement, and tensile testing. The results indicate that the Al(OH) 3 particles were well-dispersed in the composite films, leading to a strong interaction with the cellulose acetate matrix. As a result, the prepared composite films exhibited significantly higher tensile strength compared to pure bamboo-derived cellulose film. Additionally, they demonstrated improved anti-ultraviolet properties and a lower water vapor transmission rate, despite being more hydrophilic. This method holds significant potential for commercial applications in producing high-performance cellulose acetate-based composite films. Highlights Bamboo-derived cellulose acetate was synthesized through chemical processes. BDCA based composite film reinforced with Al(OH) 3 was prepared by casting method. The Al(OH) 3 significantly enhance the functional properties of the composite film. Composite films showed good performances for packaging according to the results.