Development and characterization of biocomposites based on hydroxyethylcellulose and epoxidized natural rubber

Environmentally benign and environmentally sustainable nanocomposites are increasingly favored in industrial and technological applications because of their biodegradability, compatibility with biological systems, and low environmental footprint. In this study, a novel composite material was developed using hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) as a reinforcing agent within an epoxidized natural rubber (INR 25%) matrix. The HEC/ENR composites were prepared via a solution mixing method. The morphology, thermal behavior, mechanical performance, and surface characteristics of the composites were examined through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Experimental results revealed that the addition of HEC significantly enhances the stiffness, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of the composites. A progressive increase in crosslink density was observed with higher HEC proportions, strengthening the structural cohesion and reducing the mobility of polymer chains. Furthermore, the composites exhibited tunable wettability properties, achieved through the balance between the hydrophilic groups of HEC and the hydrophobic characteristics of ENR. These properties offer promising opportunities for various applications, including biodegradable packaging, selective membranes, biomedical films for controlled drug release, as well as functional coatings and materials for electronic devices.