Effects of two plasticizers on the properties of PHB binary and ternary blends

What is it about?

The effects of two different plasticizers on several properties of PHB have been examined, utilizing tributyrin and poly[di(ethyleneglycol) adipate]. Binary and ternary blends were obtained by adding both plasticizers separately or together, respectively. The effect of plasticizer addition on the optical transparency, water vapor permeability, and tensile properties of the films was studied.

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Why is it important?

It was found that the blends remain transparent and water vapor permeability was maintained constant until a 20 wt % of plasticizer content. Plasticizing effect was corroborated and it depended on the plasticizer percentage. Binary and ternary blends presented enhanced properties, causing an increment on processability.