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Quantitative Analysis of Compatibility and Dispersibility in Nanocellulose-Reinforced Composites: Hansen Solubility
Yuxia Wang1, Zechuan Yu2, Alain Dufresne3
1School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China.
ACS Nano
|November 18, 2021
Summary
Evaluating nanocellulose compatibility in polymer composites is key for reinforcement. This study introduces methods using Hansen solubility and Raman mapping to quantify dispersion and predict mechanical properties with a new multiscale percolation model.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Nanocellulose, including cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs), is a promising nano-reinforcing filler for polymer composites due to its high specific modulus.
- Efficient stress transfer and mechanical reinforcement in nanocellulose-polymer composites depend critically on the compatibility and dispersion state of the nanocellulose within the polymer matrix.
- Accurate quantitative evaluation methods are needed to assess nanocellulose dispersibility and compatibility in various polymer matrices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and apply comprehensive theories and methods for directly evaluating the compatibility and dispersibility of CNCs and CNFs in polymer matrices.
- To investigate the effect of polymer polarity on nanocellulose compatibility and dispersion.
- To propose an updated multiscale percolation model for predicting the mechanical properties of nanocellulose-reinforced composites.
Main Methods:
- Compatibility was assessed using Hansen solubility parameters.
- Dispersibility was quantitatively evaluated using Raman mapping and cluster analysis.
- Triple-bond surface modification of nanocellulose was employed for enhanced signal detection in Raman spectroscopy.
Main Results:
- The study successfully evaluated the compatibility and dispersibility of nanocellulose in four polymer matrices with varying polarities.
- Triple-bond modification enabled accurate, matrix-independent recognition of nanocellulose signals via Raman mapping.
- A quantitative dispersion factor was derived, forming the basis for a novel multiscale percolation model.
Conclusions:
- The developed methods provide direct quantitative insights into nanocellulose compatibility and dispersion in polymer composites.
- Surface modification strategies, like triple-bond functionalization, are effective for in-situ characterization of nanocellulose.
- The proposed multiscale percolation model, informed by Raman mapping data, offers improved prediction of composite mechanical properties.
