The present invention discloses water-soluble compositions comprising a blend
of poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(vinyl alcohol) that have improved ductility over
water-soluble compositions comprising poly(vinyl alcohol) alone. In one desirable
embodiment of the present invention, the poly(ethylene oxide) component of the
blend is grafted. Grafted poly(ethylene oxide) resins have improved processability
and improved blend compatibility with poly(vinyl alcohol). Films comprising a melt
blend of poly(vinyl alcohol) and grafted poly(ethylene oxide) have improved melt
processability as well as other improved properties. Films comprising compositions
of the present invention have improved ductility over films comprising poly(vinyl
alcohol) alone while retaining much of the high strength and water solubility exhibited
by such poly(vinyl alcohol) films.