Anti-Static and Anti-Flaming Improvement of Biodegradable Polymer Blends by Nanocoating Via Plasma Technology and Sparking Process

The research project emphasizes the widespread application of polymer blends, praising their exceptional attributes such as durability, lightweight, and chemical resistance, rendering them indispensable across diverse industries. As highlighted in a joint report from European Bioplastics and the nova-Institute, global bioplastics production surged to approximately 2.42 million tons in 2021. However, the use of biopolymers for packaging, electronics, and automotive applications is hindered by flammability and static. To address this, the project focuses on enhancing anti-flaming and antistatic packaging in electronic devices through plasma treatment and the introduction of nano-metal-particles (NMP). In the project's initial phase, we successfully developed anti-flaming biodegradable composite films by melt blending PBS/PBAT, and epoxy with MgO. This resulted in PBS/E1/PBAT/MgO 15 blends achieving a V-1 degree of flame retardancy, with notable enhancements in tensile strength and elongation at break compared to PBS/PBAT. The improved properties stemmed from the epoxy reaction in the PBS/E1/PBAT blends, as confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy demonstrating the interaction between carboxyl groups of PBS and PBAT. Morphologically, the blends exhibited a well-distributed structure with MgO particles evenly dispersed in a PBS/E1/PBAT matrix. The addition of MgO improved thermal decomposition behavior and water resistance due to its high thermal stability and hydrophobicity. This reaction indicated improved compatibility, enhancing mechanical, water resistance, and thermal properties. MgO acted as a catalyst, making the anti-flaming biodegradable composite suitable for applications in packaging, medical, and agriculture. The upcoming phase will focus on preparing an anti-static and anti-flaming biodegradable composite film through nanocoating using plasma technology and sparking processes.