High-Performance Flame-Retardant PVA/Nanoclay/MWCNTs Composite Films: Fabrication, Multifunctional Properties, and Advanced Characterization
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48048/tis.2025.10219Keywords:
Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite, Flame retardancy, Mechanical and thermal properties, NanoclayAbstract
This study focuses on the fabrication and evaluation of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based composite films reinforced with nanoclay and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to enhance their mechanical, thermal, and flame-retardant properties. The composite films were synthesized using the solution blending and casting method, where PVA was dissolved in water, followed by the ultrasonic dispersion of MWCNTs and nanoclay. The mixture was magnetically stirred to ensure uniform dispersion before film casting and drying. The composite samples were prepared with nanoclay contents of 1%, 3% and 5% and MWCNTs contents of 0.2%, 0.5% and 1% by weight. Mechanical analysis revealed that the sample containing 3% nanoclay and 0.5% MWCNTs achieved the highest tensile strength, increasing by 40.8% from 32.8 to 46.2 MPa. The flexural strength also improved by 34.5% from 53.2 to 71.5 MPa. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images demonstrated uniform dispersion of nanoclay and MWCNTs within the PVA matrix, which significantly enhanced phase interactions. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) results showed that the degradation temperature of the PVA/0.5% MWCNTs/3% nanoclay sample reached 318.7 °C, which is 27.6 °C higher than that of pure PVA (291.1 °C), indicating improved thermal stability. Regarding flame retardancy, the limiting oxygen index (LOI) of the composite reached 31.5%, significantly higher than that of pure PVA (19.8%), while also achieving a UL-94 V-0 rating, confirming its self-extinguishing ability. The novelty of this study lies in the synergistic reinforcement of MWCNTs and nanoclay in the PVA matrix, leading to simultaneous enhancements in mechanical strength, thermal stability, and flame resistance, a combination that has not been fully explored before. The optimized formulation (PVA/0.5% MWCNTs/3% nanoclay) offers great potential for applications in industries requiring heat-resistant and flame-retardant materials, such as smart packaging, thermal insulation, and protective coatings.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite films reinforced with nanoclay and MWCNTs were successfully fabricated using solution casting.
- The optimized composite (0.5% MWCNTs and 3% nanoclay) exhibited a 40.8% increase in tensile strength and 34.5% increase in flexural strength.
- Thermal stability improved significantly, with the degradation temperature rising from 291.1 °C (pure PVA) to 318.7 °C.
- Flame retardancy was enhanced, achieving an LOI of 31.5% and a UL-94 V-0 rating.
- The study demonstrates the synergistic effect of MWCNTs and nanoclay in improving mechanical, thermal, and flame-retardant performance of PVA-based films.
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