Sustainable Biocomposites for Structural Applications with Environmental Affinity.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Chitosan is a biodegradable polymer with potential applications in various fields.
• Graphene is a 2D material known for its exceptional mechanical and electrical properties.
• Developing sustainable and high-performance biocomposites is crucial for reducing plastic waste.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize novel chitosan-based biocomposites reinforced with morphed graphene.
• To investigate the effect of morphed graphene on the mechanical properties of chitosan.
• To assess the sustainability and potential applications of these new biocomposites.

Main Methods:

• Biocomposites were fabricated using a chitosan matrix reinforced with 1-5 wt% morphed graphene.
• Processing involved milling and conventional sintering techniques.
• Mechanical properties, including yield strength, compressive strength, Young's modulus, and fracture toughness, were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Morphed graphene addition significantly improved mechanical properties, particularly at 180 °C.
• Yield strength and compressive strength increased by 40-50% compared to pure chitosan.
• Fracture toughness increased up to 3.5-fold, while Young's modulus showed a 10% drop.
• The enhanced properties are attributed to the network formed by graphene within the chitosan matrix.

Conclusions:

• The study demonstrates a facile preparation of high-performance, sustainable biocomposites.
• These materials exhibit properties comparable to commodity plastics and are suitable for disposable structural components.
• The biocomposites are compostable, biodegradable, and derived from waste, offering a negative carbon footprint potential.