Characterization of polymeric biocomposite based on poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone)

Abstract Biocompatible and easily available materials from dairy production waste were used for modification of water‐soluble polymeric blends of Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and Poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP). The resulting biocomposites of PVA/PVP with various concentrations of lactose (L) or calcium lactate (CL) (0, 5, 15, 25, 35 wt%) were prepared by using a solvent cast technique and then characterized by optical microscopy, tensile test, water content determination, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy equipped by attenuated total reflectance device, and also tested for biodegradability. The films were transparent with a smooth surface. The results confirm that L and CL work as fillers in polymeric matrix. The tensile investigations showed enhanced Young's modulus (E) and tensile strength for low‐filled of composite materials (up to 5 wt% L and 15 wt% CL). The biodegradation test in aquatic conditions revealed improved biodegradability of modified blends. Both L and CL seem to be suitable for the modification of polymers, which can be convenient from economical and environmental point of view. POLYM. COMPOS., 27:147–152, 2006. © 2006 Society of Plastics Engineers.