Hybrid nanocomposite based on cellulose and tin oxide: growth, structure, tensile and electrical characteristics

A highly flexible nanocomposite was developed by coating a regenerated cellulose film with a thin layer of tin oxide (SnO₂) by liquid-phase deposition. Tin oxide was crystallized in solution and formed nanocrystal coatings on regenerated cellulose. The nanocrystalline layers did not exfoliate from cellulose. Transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy suggest that SnO₂ was not only deposited over the cellulose surface, but also nucleated and grew inside the cellulose film. Current-voltage characteristics of the nanocomposite revealed that its electrical resistivity decreases with deposition time, with the lowest value obtained for 24 h of deposition. The cellulose-SnO₂ hybrid nanocomposite can be used for biodegradable and disposable chemical, humidity and biosensors.