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Cellulose nanocrystals/polyurethane nanocomposites. Study from the viewpoint of microphase separated structure
L Rueda1, A Saralegui, B Fernández d'Arlas
1Materials+Technologies Group, Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Polytechnic School, University of Basque Country, Pza. Europa 1, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain.
Carbohydrate Polymers
|December 11, 2012
Summary
Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) enhance thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites. These materials show improved stiffness and thermal stability due to favorable interactions between CNC and TPU segments.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) are versatile elastomers.
- Incorporating nanomaterials can enhance polymer properties.
- Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) offer sustainable reinforcement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) on the properties of segmented thermoplastic elastomeric polyurethane (STPUE).
- To evaluate the dispersion and interaction of CNCs within the STPUE matrix.
- To correlate material properties with nanostructure.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of STPUE/CNC nanocomposite films using solvent casting with varying CNC content (1.5-30 wt%).
- Characterization of microphase separated structure using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).
- Evaluation of thermal and mechanical properties.
Main Results:
- CNCs were effectively dispersed in the STPUE matrix via hydrogen bonding.
- CNCs interacted with both soft and hard segments of the polyurethane.
- Enhanced stiffness and improved thermal stability were observed in the nanocomposites.
- Morphology, investigated by AFM, correlated with property enhancements.
Conclusions:
- Favorable interactions between CNCs and STPUE matrix lead to effective dispersion.
- CNCs act as reinforcing agents, improving mechanical and thermal properties.
- The study demonstrates the potential of CNCs for developing advanced polyurethane nanocomposites.
