I would like to produce a PVOH film with high flexibility and was wondering if adding glycerol in a water solution can help? Or any other plasticisers?
Yes, adding glycerol to a polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) solution can effectively plasticize the material and improve its flexibility. Glycerol works by reducing intermolecular forces between PVOH chains, making the polymer more flexible and less brittle. It is a commonly used plasticizer in water-soluble films, including PVOH.
Here are a few steps you can follow to plasticize PVOH using glycerol in solution:
Prepare the PVOH Solution:Dissolve PVOH in water by heating the mixture. The concentration of PVOH can vary, but typically, 4-10% PVOH by weight in water is used. Stir the mixture until the PVOH is fully dissolved, which can take 1-2 hours at 80-90°C.
Add Glycerol:After the PVOH is dissolved, add glycerol to the solution. The amount of glycerol can vary depending on the desired flexibility. Typically, glycerol is added at a ratio of 10-30% by weight relative to PVOH. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the glycerol is evenly distributed throughout the solution.
Casting the Film:Once the solution is ready, cast it onto a flat surface (such as a Petri dish or glass plate) to form the film. Allow the film to dry at room temperature or in an oven at low heat (e.g., 40-50°C) until it reaches the desired thickness and consistency.
Optional Additives:Other plasticizers that could be used in place of or in addition to glycerol include sorbitol, polyethylene glycol (PEG), or triacetin. If you're aiming for enhanced moisture resistance or strength, you could also consider adding crosslinking agents like borax, though this may reduce flexibility.
By varying the amount and type of plasticizer, you can adjust the final properties of the PVOH film, including flexibility, transparency, and mechanical strength.