Bioinspired micro/nanofibers interlocking for high-strength self-bonded bamboo material

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Sustainable Polymers

Background:

• Developing sustainable lignocellulosic materials requires balancing mechanical properties with environmental impact.
• Conventional methods often rely on synthetic adhesives, posing environmental concerns.
• A bioinspired approach mimicking natural structures can offer novel solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a self-bonded bamboo fiber material (S-BFM) using retained lignin as a binder.
• To enhance mechanical performance and environmental friendliness simultaneously.
• To provide a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.

Main Methods:

• Inspired by bee tarsal setae microstructure for in-situ nanofiber liberation.
• Retained native lignin acts as a biomacromolecule binder during hot pressing.
• Water-induced swelling promotes micro/nanofiber interlocking.
• Molecular dynamics simulations to analyze lignin's role in bonding.

Main Results:

• S-BFM achieved a mechanical strength of 59.4 MPa (748.6% increase vs. controls).
• Silane coupling modification resulted in exceptional dimensional stability (7.3% thickness swelling).
• High thermal stability (decomposition up to 376.9°C) and favorable life-cycle assessment.

Conclusions:

• The bioinspired S-BFM effectively resolves the trade-off between mechanical robustness and ecological sustainability.
• Retained lignin enhances intermolecular interactions and inter-fiber bonding.
• S-BFM presents a promising eco-friendly alternative to plastics for applications like smart card substrates.