Development of Multiscale Composite with Hybrid Natural Nanofibers

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Natural nanofibers are crucial in medicine but often lack sufficient mechanical strength.
• Nanofiber composition is a key factor influencing the mechanical properties of composite materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of natural nanofiber composition on the strength of hybrid composites.
• To compare the mechanical properties of hybrid composites made with pure Cellulose Acetate (CA) nanofibers versus CA nanofibers incorporating Hemp Seed (HS).

Main Methods:

• Hybrid composites were fabricated using vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM).
• Natural nanofibers were produced via electrospinning with varying compositions (CA only, and CA + HS).
• Tensile strength and elastic modulus were measured using a universal testing machine (UTM).

Main Results:

• Electrospun nanofiber diameter was influenced by solution concentration, voltage, and HS inclusion.
• Hemp Seed (HS) inclusion in Cellulose Acetate (CA) decreased fiber diameter and affected bead formation.
• Hybrid composites with CA + HS nanofibers exhibited higher elastic modulus (232 MPa) and tensile strength (20.4 GPa) compared to CA only (110 MPa and 13.7 GPa).

Conclusions:

• The composition of natural nanofibers, specifically the inclusion of Hemp Seed (HS), significantly enhances the mechanical properties of hybrid composites.
• Hybrid composites utilizing CA + HS nanofibers demonstrate superior tensile strength and elastic modulus, making them promising for advanced medical applications.