Mechanical characterization of chitosan-based films using the bulge test

A test system and test method have been reported by the scientific researchers previously to evaluate the mechanical characteristics of extremely thin (up to 0.05 mm thick) metal film materials using a proper bulge test. The objective of this article is to describe recent advances in the development of hydraulic bulging system and methodology in packaging applications. Furthermore, this methodology has been extended to the analysis of plastic films and biodegradable composites with low thickness, whether pure or hybrid, with different chitosan/additives, chitosan/fibers, and chitosan/additives/fibers systems, thus allowing to qualify and quantify the mechanical properties of these packaging materials. That it is used to accurately determine characteristics such as pressure resistance, ductility, flexibility, and deflection of biodegradable plastic films and composites. The interest of this test is to detect the pores and the damage produced during the synthesis of the films. Thus, it serves to confirm the results obtained from the traction test.