Estimation of resistance of starch/polyvinyl alcohol blends to permeation by organic solvents

The chemical resistance of chlorinated hydrocarbons in starch/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) blends has been investigated using a permeation cell with an in-cell solid phase microextraction (SPME) sampling device. The chlorinated hydrocarbon with a large molecule size or lower polarity was found to be less permeable through the starch/PVA blends. The tensile strength and chemical resistance of chlorinated hydrocarbons decreased with an increase in the starch content of blends. For the starch/PVA blends, the solubility of chlorinated hydrocarbons was inversely proportional to their molecular weight, molar volume and log Kow. The diffusion coefficients and solubility of permeants were proportional to the content of starch in the starch/PVA blends. It is plausible that the blends will be inclined to the starch characteristics as the plasticizer (i.e. glycerin) disrupts the rigidity arrangements of the starch and PVA. The present work provides information on the extent of organic compound permeation through starch/PVA blends for the practical application.