Ethylene Vinyl Acetate/Starch/Clay Biodegradable Nanocomposites

In this book, the preparation and different properties of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)/thermoplastics starch (TPS)/clay biodegradable blend nanocomposites have been discussed. The blend was prepared at various compositions and their properties were studied at optimum composition of the blend. Maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (MAPE) was used to improve mechanical properties of the optimized blend. Na+MMT, treated clay Cloisite30B and Cloisite20A were added to the optimized blend matrix and their properties like mechanical, thermal, morphology, dynamic mechanical, water absorption characteristics, and biodegradability were investigated. The results showed that the biodegradability and mechanical properties were improved with the addition of starch and nanoclays. It is hoped that the present work will spur further research and advances in this fascinating field and ultimately lead to the widespread use of EVA/TPS blend commercially.