Dispersion of Silicate Layers in Zein/Montmorillonite Composite Films Using Two Sonication Methods

This study aimed to prepare zein/Montmorillonite (MMT) composite films by two methods: (1) An ultrasonic bath, and (2) A high power ultrasonic probe. Then, the structural, thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties of the obtained composites were evaluated. According to the X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) patterns, the composite films prepared by the first and second methods had microcomposite and exfoliated structures, respectively. Based on the results of the statistical analysis, the clay dispersion method and Montmorillonite (MMT) content significantly affected the mechanical, barrier, and thermal properties of the composite films. The results showed that mechanical and water vapor barrier properties of the nanocomposites were improved in the presence of small amounts (up to 3%) of MMT, while increased montmorillonite percentage in the microcomposite films weakened the mechanical, barrier, and thermal properties of these films. Therefore, the use of high power sonication is a suitable method for producing protein-based nanocomposites with an exfoliated structure.