Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) oligomer as a modifier in PHB/nanocellulose composites

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) is a biodegradable polymer with potential for sustainable packaging.
• PHB's properties often require modification to meet industrial demands.
• Utilizing by-products like mushroom industry waste for material enhancement aligns with circular economy principles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To improve the properties and reduce the cost of PHB biopolymer.
• To investigate the effects of nanocellulose (NC) and a PHB oligomer (M) as modifiers for PHB.
• To evaluate the potential of these nanocomposites for packaging applications.

Main Methods:

• Nanocellulose (NC) was extracted from mushroom industry by-products.
• A PHB oligomer (M) was synthesized via controlled degradation of PHB.
• Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)/nanocellulose/oligomer (PHB/NC/M) nanocomposites were prepared and characterized using AFM, SEM, and mechanical testing.

Main Results:

• NC exhibited high aspect ratio and thermal stability.
• The M modifier demonstrated improved thermal stability and crystallinity compared to PHB.
• PHB/NC/M nanocomposites showed enhanced tensile strength and modulus, improved transparency, processability, and water barrier properties.
• The role of M varied, acting as a compatibilizer or processing agent depending on concentration.

Conclusions:

• The incorporation of NC and M significantly improved PHB properties.
• The developed nanocomposites offer a promising, sustainable alternative for the packaging industry.
• The modifiers enhanced mechanical performance, processability, and barrier properties, making PHB more competitive.