Optimization and characterization of reinforced biodegradable cellulose-based aerogels via polylactic...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Sustainable Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Cellulose-based aerogels are promising sustainable materials.
• Utilizing waste streams like vine shoots and eucalyptus paperboard offers circular economy benefits.
• Existing aerogels often require complex synthesis or lack desirable performance characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel cellulose aerogels from waste materials (vine shoots and eucalyptus paperboard).
• To investigate the impact of cellulose concentration and freezing temperature on aerogel porosity.
• To enhance aerogel properties through polylactic acid (PLA) or polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) coatings.

Main Methods:

• Cellulose extraction from vine shoots (as cellulose nanocrystals - CNCs) and eucalyptus paperboard (as cellulosic fibers).
• Aerogel fabrication with varying cellulose concentrations (0.5%, 2% w/v) and freezing temperatures (-20°C, -80°C).
• Characterization using Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) for porosity, thermal conductivity analysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for microstructure, and mechanical compressive tests.

Main Results:

• Optimized aerogel structures were achieved by varying cellulose concentration and freezing temperatures.
• Coating with polylactic acid (PLA) or polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) significantly improved mechanical strength (~10-fold) and water resistance (contact angle >100°).
• Biodegradability confirmed according to ISO 20200 standards.

Conclusions:

• Vine shoots and eucalyptus paperboard are viable sources for high-performance cellulose aerogels.
• Coating enhances mechanical and water-resistant properties, creating advanced functional materials.
• These aerogels represent a sustainable, high-performance alternative aligned with circular economy principles.