Effect of Nanoclay Content and pH of the Medium on the Swelling Characteristics of Grafted and Cross-Linked Mixed Chitosan Derivatives

Abstract

A mixture of chitosan and carboxy methyl chitosan along with silane functionalized nanoclay has been grafted with acrylic acid followed by cross-linking. The nanocomposites were then examined for swelling characteristics in acidic, alkaline and neutral medium. In all the three mediums, an optimal clay content with maximum swelling was observed. The thermal characterization of the nanocomposites was also carried out.

Keywords:

• Chitosan
• Cross-linking
• Grafting
• Swelling characteristics

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The authors thank the Department of Science and Technology (DST) for the financial assistance of this work under the Green Chemistry Programme (2007–2010).