Preparation and characterization of bromelain based poly-vinyl alcohol fiber

In the last decade, the applications of polyvinyl alcohol have expanded for its notable characteristics like high mechanical properties, chemical and thermal stability, non-toxic nature, film forming capabilities, and low manufacturing cost [1]. Poly-vinyl alcohol has a wide range of industrial application like textile, paper industry, food packaging industry, and as a biodegradable product like backing rolls, adhesives, coatings, surfactant etc. But hitherto, Poly-Vinyl alcohol has certain disadvantages like lower breaking elongation. Also, it is difficult to mold as it is highly viscous nature during the melting process ^[2]. The present research work is focused on preparation and studying the characterization of Bromelain based Poly-vinyl Alcohol fiber to improve its flexibility, thermal and mechanical characteristics. The fiber thus prepared may be employed in 3D printing application as support structures for modeling intricate shapes, production of bandages or wipes for inflammation wounds, Food packaging containers etc. For the present study, polyvinyl alcohol is tailored with Bromelain (Pineapple enzyme) which is used as an additive in this process and was analyzed in different stoichiometric ratios. Glycerin was employed as plasticizer to improve its flexibility and strength. The results that was inferred from the tests are namely: maximum tensile strength of 7.66 Mpa, maximum brake load and stress from three-point bending test was found to be 35 N and 2.593 Mpa, the temperature range shifts on addition of Bromelain was derived from TG/DTA analysis to understand its ductility, tensile strength, strength enhancement, thermal stability etc., and observation and recording of SEM images for studying its internal structure. Therefore, the tailored feedstock was tested and analyzed to understand the variation in its properties thus broadening its applications.