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Influence of the Ultrasonic Treatment on the Properties of Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate, Modified by Antimicrobial Additive

Summary

Researchers developed a new eco-friendly plastic material for food packaging that combines two important benefits: it breaks down naturally in the environment, and it prevents harmful bacteria and fungi from growing on food. The material is made from a biodegradable plastic called PBAT mixed with a natural extract from birch bark. Using special ultrasonic sound waves during manufacturing helped distribute the birch extract evenly throughout the material, improving its performance.

Background

Biodegradable polymers are gaining importance as environmental alternatives to traditional plastics. Polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) is a promising biodegradable polymer with good mechanical properties. To ensure food safety, packaging materials must also possess antimicrobial properties to prevent microbial spoilage.

Objective

To develop and characterize a modified biodegradable material based on PBAT with antimicrobial properties by incorporating birch bark extract (BBE) and studying the effects of ultrasonic treatment during processing on material properties.

Results

Ultrasonic treatment improved uniform distribution of BBE additive in the polymer matrix. Introduction of 1 wt% BBE imparted bacteriostatic and fungistatic properties to PBAT without significantly affecting mechanical properties. Ultrasonic treatment increased elongation at break but slightly decreased tensile strength. Biodegradation studies showed 4-month composting resulted in greater elongation changes for pure PBAT than PBAT+BBE.

Conclusion

PBAT modified with 1 wt% birch bark extract demonstrates antimicrobial properties and biodegradability, making it suitable for food packaging applications. Ultrasonic treatment during processing improves additive distribution and accelerates biodegradation. The material combines environmental sustainability with microbiological safety benefits.
  • Published in:Polymers (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/polym12102412, PMID: 33086696
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