Effect of Zirconium oxide (ZrО2) Nanoparticles on the Mechanical, WVTR, and Antibacterial Properties of Polyethylene Polymer Matrix
https://doi.org/10.20914/2310-1202-2025-1-272-279
Abstract
A nanocomposite based on a low-density polyethylene (LDPE) matrix reinforced with zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) nanoparticles was synthesized via single-screw extrusion and systematically characterized. Structural analysis confirmed homogeneous dispersion of ZrO₂ nanoparticles at lower concentrations (4.7% w/w), while agglomeration occurred at higher loadings (8.7% w/w), as evidenced by digital microscopy. FTIR spectroscopy revealed Zr-O vibrational modes at 421-468 cm⁻¹, verifying successful incorporation. Mechanical properties exhibited concentration-dependent behavior: tensile strength decreased by 31% (12.30→8.5 MPa) and elongation by 34% (482→320%) with 8.7% ZrO₂, attributed to stress concentration at nanoparticle clusters. Conversely, film thickness increased linearly (R²=0.98) with filler content, reducing water vapor transmission rate by 42% through enhanced tortuosity. The nanocomposites demonstrated remarkable antimicrobial efficacy, achieving 3-log reduction against E. coli at 8.7% loading, surpassing conventional food packaging materials. Thermal analysis (DSC/TGA) revealed improved thermal stability (↑15°C in decomposition temperature) without compromising LDPE's melt processability. These findings position ZrO₂-LDPE nanocomposites as advanced materials for active packaging, combining tailored mechanical performance, superior moisture barriers, and non-migratory antimicrobial protection while maintaining compliance with food-contact regulations.
About the Authors
Emiru Yidnekachew Melesse
Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Russian Biotechnological University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Department of Industrial Design Packaging Technologies and Expertise
Ali Yakoub Alkhair
Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Russian Biotechnology University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Department of Industrial Design Packaging Technologies and Expertise
Y. A. Filinskaya
Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Russian Biotechnology University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Department of Industrial Design Packaging Technologies and Expertise
I. A. Kirsh
Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Russian Biotechnology University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Department of Industrial Design Packaging Technologies and Expertise
O. A. Bannikova
Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Russian Biotechnology University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Department of Industrial Design Packaging Technologies and Expertise
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Review
For citations:
Melesse E.Y., Alkhair A.Ya., Filinskaya Y.A., Kirsh I.A., Bannikova O.A. Effect of Zirconium oxide (ZrО2) Nanoparticles on the Mechanical, WVTR, and Antibacterial Properties of Polyethylene Polymer Matrix. Proceedings of the Voronezh State University of Engineering Technologies. 2025;87(1):272-279. https://doi.org/10.20914/2310-1202-2025-1-272-279
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