Characterizations and properties of nano-silver/low density polyethylene composite film for food packaging

Nano-Ag/LDPE food packaging films were developed through the following steps:firstly, nano-Ag particles and additives ( Tinuvin 783, Irganox B900) were dispersed into low density polyethylene ( LDPE) , a matrix material, by melting-blending technique;then the particulate polymer composites produced were blown into film by sequential treatment with extruder followed by a plastic film blowing machine;and finally the target product was obtained. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was used to analyze the distribution of Nano-silver particles. Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) was used to analyze the surface micromorphology of films.Tensile mechanical properties, water vapor permeability, light transmittance and color of the films were tested.The results showed that the addition of nano-silver or plastic additives in the materials could increase the roughness of LDPE film, and reduce light transmittance. The addition of nano-silver reduces the elongation at break and the transmittance of the materials, increase the roughness and changes the materials' color obviously, more dark and yellow. Plastic additives added in the material had no influence on the the color of materials, but reduced the elongation at break of the materials.