Structure and Properties of Chitosan and Polyvinyl Alcohol Blend Film

Chitosan (CS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) blend films were prepared by solution casting of various mass ratio of CS and PVA. The structures and properties of the blended films were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum, differential scanning calorimetry, tensile test and light transmittance measurement. The results showed that CS and PVA had good compatibility and there was no phase separation in the blends. There was strong hydrogen bonding association between CS and PVA polymer chains. Tensile strength and light transmittance of the blend films increased with the CS addition.