TEMPO-Oxidized Cellulose Nanofibril Films Incorporating Graphene Oxide Nanofillers

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) are promising biomaterials, but their properties require enhancement for advanced applications.
• Graphene oxide (GO) offers unique properties but requires effective dispersion within cellulose matrices.
• Developing robust cellulose-nanocomposites is crucial for sustainable material innovation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel composite of TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibrils (TOCNs) and graphene oxide (GO).
• To investigate the effect of varying GO loadings and oxidation degrees on the composite's structure, thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties.
• To explore the potential of this new composite in various life science applications.

Main Methods:

• TEMPO-mediated oxidation was used to create TOCNs.
• A unique process combining high-intensity homogenization and ultrasonication was employed for GO dispersion in the NFC matrix.
• X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were utilized for characterization.

Main Results:

• The TOCN/GO composite exhibited no change in crystallinity but showed significant morphological differences.
• Thermal stability shifted to a lower temperature, while Young's storage modulus and tensile strength improved, indicating strong intermolecular interactions.
• Oxygen permeability decreased, and oxidation further enhanced barrier properties, with minimal impact on water vapor permeability.

Conclusions:

• The fabricated TOCN/GO composite possesses enhanced mechanical and barrier properties.
• The high-intensity homogenization and ultrasonication method effectively dispersed GO within the NFC matrix.
• This novel composite shows significant potential for applications in biomaterials, food packaging, and the medical industry.