Effects of nano-TiO2 on the structure and properties of composite materials constructed from eggshell powder/poly(butyleneadipate-co-terephthalate)

In the present work, the effects of nano-TiO2 on the properties and structure of eggshell powder/poly(butyleneadipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) composites were comprehensively explored. The results showed that nano-TiO2 could promote the tensile strength and water resistance of the composite material, as well as reduce the light transmittance. Nano-TiO2 reacted with PBAT to form the C-O-Ti bonds, resulted in enhanced structure stability of the composite material. Nano-TiO2 served as the nanoscale filler to improve the internal compatibility of the composites through hydrogen bonds. Besides, the crystallization performance of the polymer system was also altered by nano-TiO2 incorporation. These changes in structure promoted the thermal stability and surface hydrophobicity. Finally, the antibacterial test was performed, and the nanocomposite material containing nano-TiO2 exhibited excellent antibacterial properties. This research provides a novel strategy for constructing an eggshell powder/PBAT/nano-TiO2 nanocomposite biodegradable plastic that could be used for the development of antibacterial materials.