Preparation and Characterization of Methyl Cellulose/Pullulan/ Montmorillonite Nanocomposite Film for Packaging Applications

Abstract

Methyl cellulose (MC) and pullulan (PULL) blend films with varying ratios were fabricated, with the MC/ PULL 60/40 composition exhibiting the best mechanical performance. Montmorillonite (MMT) was incorporated (1–5 wt.%) into the 60/40 matrix to further enhance the film properties. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the complete exfoliation and uniform dispersion of MMT platelets, indicating strong miscibility within the polymer matrix. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed strong interactions among MC, PULL, and MMT. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated that the temperature corresponding to 50% decomposition increased with MMT loading of up to 3% but decreased at 5%. Water contact angle measurements indicated an increase in hydrophobicity with rising MMT content (from 61.4° to 64.4°). These environmentally friendly nanocomposite films exhibit enhanced mechanical, thermal, and surface properties while maintaining biodegradability, making them promising candidates for sustainable food packaging and protective applications.