The synthesis and investigation of physical properties of an ABA triblock copolymer of polyethylene (PE) and cellulose triacetate (CTA) for dispersion of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) in HDPE is described herein. Structural similarity between CTA and CNCs was hypothesized to improve CNC dispersion in HDPE and afford reinforced HDPE with improved barrier properties. A three-step synthesis involving functionalization, polymerization, and hydrogenation afforded a CTA-b-PE-b-CTA triblock copolymer which may act as a dispersing agent for the composite. Initially, the CTA was monofunctionalized with a pendant olefin substituent on the reducing end through basic solvolysis. The olefin-terminated CTA behaved as a macro chain transfer agent (CTA) in cross-metathesis ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) of cyclooctadiene, yielding a triblock copolymer containing CTA and polybutadiene (PB). The CTA-b-PB-b-CTA copolymer was subject to hydrogenation, which converted the PB midblock into PE and produced the final dispersing agent CTA-b-PE-b-CTA. This triblock copolymer was added to coprecipitated and melt-mixed composites of CTA and PE in 1, 2.5, and 5 wt. % quantities and the resulting mixtures were melt pressed to form films. Mechanical analysis of composite films showed significant reinforcement of PE, both with and without the dispersing agent. This system provides a cost-effective alternative to conventional PE with greater sustainability, enhanced strength, and improved oxygen barrier properties.

Composites of HDPE and cellulose nanocrystals: Exploring properties of materials containing sustainable polymers

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

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