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Biodegradable NR Latex Films with Lignocellulosic and Collagen Hydrolysate Fillers
Magdalena Kmiotek1, Mirosława Prochoń2, Elżbieta Sąsiadek-Andrzejczak3
1Centre of Papermaking and Printing, Lodz University of Technology, Wolczanska 221 Street, 93-005 Lodz, Poland.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 14, 2025
Summary
This study explored using wood and non-wood lignocellulose fillers, with or without collagen hydrolysate, in natural rubber latex composites. Results show improved mechanical strength, highlighting lignocellulose as a promising, biodegradable filler for eco-friendly materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Natural rubber latex composites often face challenges with filler-matrix compatibility due to differing hydrophobicity.
- Developing sustainable and biodegradable materials is crucial for environmental safety.
- Lignocellulose, derived from wood and non-wood sources, offers potential as a renewable filler.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of lignocellulose fillers (wood and non-wood) and collagen hydrolysate on natural rubber latex composite properties.
- To assess the biodegradation ability and mechanical performance of these novel composites.
- To explore the morphology and filler-matrix interactions within the composite materials.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of natural rubber latex composites incorporating various lignocellulose fillers (pine, spruce, birch, willow, raspberry, mallow) and collagen hydrolysate.
- Evaluation of mechanical properties (strength, hardness) and equilibrium swelling.
- Morphological analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and investigation of filler-matrix interactions via infrared spectroscopy (IR).
Main Results:
- Incorporation of lignocellulose filler, even with poor compatibility, led to increased mechanical strength at 4 phr loading.
- The biodegradability of lignocellulose fillers contributes positively to the overall environmental safety of the natural rubber latex composites.
- SEM and IR analyses provided insights into filler dispersion and interactions within the polymer matrix.
Conclusions:
- Lignocellulose fillers, sourced from both wood and non-wood materials, are effective in enhancing the mechanical properties of natural rubber latex composites.
- The inherent biodegradability of these fillers makes them a sustainable choice for developing environmentally friendly polymer materials.
- Further research into optimizing filler-matrix compatibility could unlock even greater potential for these bio-based composites.
