Effect of Starch-MWCNT@ Valine Nanocomposite on the Optical, Morphological, Thermal, and Adsorption Properties of Chitosan

Abstract

The overall goal of this research was to develop a practical method for improving chitosan (Chit) properties using Starch-MWCNT@Valine (SMV) nanocomposite (NC) as a new filler. To prevent aggregation and also improve the dispersion of MWCNTs into the chit matrix, first the surface of MWCNTs was covalently modified by valine as a natural amino acid. Then modified MWCNT was embedded into starch matrix for the preparation of SMV NC. In the second step, the desire amount of prepared SMV NC (30, 50 and 70 wt%) were incorporated into the chit matrix by ultrasonication technique for the fabrication of Chit/Starch-MWCNT@Valine NC films. The resulting NC films were characterized using different techniques. Thermogravimetric analysis results illustrated that the thermal stability of NC 70 wt% in comparison to the pure chit was enhanced. The results indicated that prepared NCs were promising adsorbents for the removal of Cd(II) ions from the aqueous solution.