Biodegradable nanocomposites of poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate): the effect of nanoparticles.

Copolymer of hydroxybutyrate and hydroxyvalerate, P(HB-HV)/layered silicate or hydroxyapatite nanocomposites were prepared via melt extrusion. The nanostructure, as observed from wide-angle X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, indicate intercalated hybrids for layered silicates. Hydroxyapatite of nanometer dimension is uniformly distributed in matrix copolymer. The nanohybrids show significant improvement in thermal and mechanical properties of the copolymer as compared to the neat copolymer. The layered silicate nanocomposites exhibit superior mechanical properties as compared to hydroxyapatite nanohybrid. The thermal expansion coefficient is significantly reduced in nanohybrids. The biodegradability of pure copolymer and its nanocomposites were studied at room temperatures under controlled conditions in compost media. The rate of biodegradation of copolymer is enhanced dramatically in the nanohybrids. Hydroxyapatite hybrid shows highest rate of biodegradation. The change in biodegradation is streamlined in terms of nature of nanoparticles used to prepare hybrids.