Enhancing the Thermal, Mechanical and Swelling Properties of PVA/Starch Nanocomposite Membranes Incorporating g-C3N4

Abstract

A ground-breaking and soft nanomaterial, namely graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has gained importance as two-dimensional filler in polymeric membranes. In this research, g-C3N4 was synthesized by “thermal oxidation etching process”, employing melamine as a precursor. The porous nanosheets were characterized by SEM, XRD and FTIR. g-C3N4 nanosheets showed remarkable thermal stability up to 620\xa0°C. The PVA starch nanocomposite membranes were fabricated with varying amounts of g-C3N4. Owing to strong interactions between g-C3N4, and polymers, the composite membranes showed exceptional thermal and mechanical stability and resist to degrade in various mediums including water, saline and blood. The hybrid membranes showed remarkable swelling abilities up to 96\xa0h. Moreover, g-C3N4 enhanced the hydrophilicity, consequently, moisture retention capability and water vapor transmission were improved. XRD and SEM results revealed the proper dispersion of g-C3N4 into the polymeric matrix. The results suggested that prepared hybrid PVA/St/g-C3N4 membranes could be used as wound dressings.Graphic Abstract