Compatibility between cellulose and hydrophobic polymer provided by microfibrillated lignocellulose

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Conventional microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) is a widely studied nanomaterial derived from wood fibers.
• Improving the compatibility and reinforcing capabilities of MFC in polymer matrices remains an active area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize microfibrillated lignocellulose (MFLC) with potentially enhanced properties.
• To investigate the amphiphilic behavior of MFLC and its impact on polymer composite properties.
• To compare the performance of MFLC with conventional MFC as a reinforcing agent in polymer matrices.

Main Methods:

• Production of MFLC via partial lignin extraction from wood using an ethanol/water mixture.
• Characterization of fibril diameter and surface properties using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).
• Fabrication and evaluation of polymer composites (polycaprolactone and polystyrene) reinforced with MFLC and MFC.

Main Results:

• MFLC exhibited similar fibril diameters to MFC but showed higher water wettability and significant variability in surface polarity.
• MFLC displayed amphiphilic characteristics, with domains of both higher and lower polarity compared to MFC.
• Composites made with MFLC showed more homogeneous fibril distribution and significantly improved mechanical reinforcement compared to MFC composites.

Conclusions:

• The amphiphilic nature of MFLC enhances its compatibility with hydrophobic polymers like polycaprolactone and polystyrene.
• MFLC serves as a superior reinforcing agent compared to MFC, leading to better dispersion and mechanical properties in polymer composites.
• MFLC represents a promising biomaterial for developing advanced polymer nanocomposites.