Cellulose-based packaging materials have sparked a growing interest due to their biodegradability, recyclability and renewability. One of the main challenges with paper-based materials is their poor formability which in turn has detrimental effects for the final shaping properties. In this study, gelatin was introduced onto cellulose fibers and the physical, chemical and mechanical properties of the resulted composites were investigated. Moreover, the use of a cross-linker to improve the paper performance as well as its effect to the formability parameters (temperature, moisture content) were explored. Cellulose-gelatin interactions were investigated by using SPR and QCM-D with respect to the pH and ionic strength. Adsorbed gelatin layer was analyzed by AFM and XPS. Gelatin treated samples were characterized with SEM, FTIR and Raman spectroscopies. Main results and possible applications for the developed composite materials will be discussed.

Modified cellulose for deep-drawn paper-based packaging materials

247th National Meeting (2014)

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