Multi-functional Polymer Nano-composite for Controlled Additives' Migration

Jasmine Rosen-Kligvasser, Technion - IIT, Haifa, Israel
Ran Suckeveriene, Kinneret College, Zemach, Israel
Roza Tchoudakov, Technion - Iit, Haifa, Israel
Moshe Narkis, Technion - Iit, Haifa, Israel


In recent years, polymer nano-composites have attracted great attention owing to their remarkable desirable properties. In order to change and/or improve different properties, additives are incorporated into polymeric systems, for example, antifog additives (AF) are used to improve wettability and UV absorbers are used to prevent photo-degradation. When added to a polyethylene (PE) film, the additives migrate to the films' surface and their concentration decreases; over time the additive’s effect desists.
The term "fog" is used to describe the condensation of water vapor on a plastic film's surface in the form of small, discrete droplets causing diffuse reflection of light, which damages the films' transparency; additional damage can occur by drizzling droplets which result in plants and food spoilage. UV radiation, originated from the sun, causes polymer degradation; most polymers are sensitive in the range of 290-340 nm. In order to extend the effect of additives in polymers and consequently increase the polymers shelf-life, efficient methods of additives controlled migration or even fixation have been sought. Extended additives’ performance is necessary to avoid frequent substitution of polyethylene films for different applications (e.g. greenhouses plastic coverings); as a result, reducing plastic waste and contributing to environmental sustainability.
In this study, a multi-functional polymer nano-composite was fabricated by synthesizing modified nano-particles (MNP's) and incorporating them in a polymeric matrix. The MNP's serve as a multi-functional additive, comprises both AF and UV absorbing properties. Fourier transform IR (FTIR) measurements confirm the existence of the MNP's. An evaluation test procedure for AF performance shows an extended duration of the AF’s activity. Solar tests have shown an effective UV protection.