Physical, tensile, and biodegradability properties of cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol/palm kernel shell powder biocomposites

Polyvinyl alcohol/palm kernel shell powder biocomposites were prepared by using a solution casting method. To enhance the properties, the crosslinking agent glutaraldehyde (GA) was added to the composition. The effect of the crosslinking agent on the biocomposite was studied based on the change in the tensile properties, physical properties, and biodegradability. The optimum GA content was found to be 2 phr because the tensile properties tended to decrease with higher GA contents. The water absorption percentages and water vapour transmissibility decreased until the GA content reached 2 phr and then increased. It was found that the biodegradability of the film decreased when GA was added.