Clean manufacturing of nanocellulose-reinforced hydrophobic flexible substrates
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Data
2021-04-15
Autores
Dias, Otavio Augusto Titton
Konar, Samir
Leão, Alcides Lopes [UNESP]
Yang, Weimin
Tjong, Jimi
Jaffer, Shaffiq
Cui, Teng
Filleter, Tobin
Sain, Mohini
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Resumo
In this study, for the first time, a flexible substrate made from nanofibrillated cellulose in slurry form was fabricated using a hydrophobic polymer base. Previous studies practiced energy-intensive dry cellulose nanofiber dispersion to produce olefin-based composites: ecological and economic viability and industrial practicability are often neglected due to lack of innovation in cleaner production processes. In this context, a low-energy process, which is economically attractive and free of harmful organic solvents, was developed to achieve homogeneous distribution of nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) in high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The dual interfacial role of the ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVAL – 48 mol% ethylene content) enhanced interfacial adhesion through the formation of nanobridges between HDPE and NFC. This method led to well-dispersed NFC in the HDPE, at 5 wt% NFC concentration, without the need of any chemical modification, solvent exchange or freeze-drying of NFC. The low interfacial tension between HDPE and EVAL and the presence of NFC in the ternary system led to enhanced dispersion during melt-mixing. Improvement in mechanical properties was achieved, with a 22% and 98% increase in the tensile strength and Young's modulus, respectively, without significantly compromising thermal stability and barrier properties. The results shown in this study indicate a significant potential to replace synthetic and costly reinforcement additives while making nanofiber-reinforced flexible composites more sustainable and mechanically robust. In this context, a paradigm shift from fossil-based production technology to a cleaner production strategy such as those exemplified in this study will help achieve a circular production economy concept without hindering functionalities.
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Palavras-chave
Biomaterial, Cellulose nanofibrils, Clean manufacturing, Composite films ethylene vinyl alcohol, Nano-slurry, Polyethylene, Sustainability
Como citar
Journal of Cleaner Production, v. 293.