Study of structural, mechanical and thermal properties of chitosan/PVA blend by casting method in different proportions

Chitosan and a combination of Chitosan and PVA with varying PVA weight ratios (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25%) are created using the solution casting technique. The produced samples underwent structural, mechanical, and thermal tests using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), strain stress test, hardness test, thermal conductivity test, and antibacterial test. The XRD measurements confirm the purity of the Chitosan and PVA powders. Furthermore, the observed alteration in the energy levels of some FTIR bands for polysaccharides, along with a decrease in their intensities, suggests the occurrence of Chitosan: PVA blend synthesis. The highest values for tensile strength, hardness, and thermal conductivity are observed at a PVA ratio of 10%. The antibacterial activity of the chitosan/PVA blends is assessed using the inhibitory concentration technique. The results indicate varying levels of activity among the different samples. The Chitosan/PVA combination at a 15% blend ratio exhibited the greatest suppression of the microorganisms. The mix exhibits lower efficacy against gram-positive bacteria compared to gram-negative bacteria.