Development of jute-polyethylene nonwoven fabric for sustainable packaging application

ABSTRACT

Environmental concerns promote demand for biodegradable packaging on a global scale. Jute fiber packaging could be a viable and sustainable alternative to pure synthetic materials. In this study, sustainable antimicrobial jute-polyethylene nonwoven fabric is developed by the heat press of jute web and polyethylene pellets. The performance of the developed samples was evaluated by analyzing their morphological, mechanical, thermal, moisture management, and antibacterial properties. SEM confirmed the homogeneous interfacial adhesion between jute-polyethylene. FTIR spectra proved the existence of jute, polyethylene, and peppermint oil in the developed samples. Mechanical property was investigated using a universal strength tester while tensile strength and elongation (%) were sufficient. The low thermal conductivities were observed in the samples. The moisture management tester confirmed the unavailability of the moisture in the inner surface from the outer surface. Furthermore, the samples exhibited significant antibacterial properties because of the application of peppermint essential oil.

KEYWORDS:

• Jute
• polyethylene
• nonwoven
• sustainable
• packaging

Acknowledgments

Department of Textile Engineering, DUET, Gazipur 1707 Bangladesh is gratefully acknowledged for providing technical support.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).