Bio-high density polyethylene films embedded with organoclay and zinc pyrithione

Bio-high density polyethylene (BHDPE) films with organoclay and antimicrobial additives (zinc pyrithione) were evaluated. The composites were prepared in a single-screw extruder using the melt intercalation technique, and the films were obtained by flat extrusion. The diffractograms indicated the formation of an intercalated nanocomposite (BHDPE/6 wt% of clay). Infrared spectra suggested that the polymer predominates over the antimicrobial agent bands. Thermal stability was slightly reduced by up to 3°C. The clay and antimicrobial agent reduced the melting point and crystallinity of BHDPE by up to 12 °C and 13.3%, respectively. In addition, the presence of clay and antimicrobial agent significantly (p < 0.05) affected all mechanical properties. Proliferation of Staphylococcus aureus demonstrated that both evaluated additives did not significantly (p > 0.05) inhibit microbial growth. The results emphasize a promising application of the films for packaging that does not require antimicrobial control, with films highlighted by 6 wt% of clay. (author)