Bionanocomposite materials were successfully prepared using a poly(lactic acid) (PLA) matrix and acetylated microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) as reinforcing agent. The acetylation of MFC was confirmed by FTIR and 13C CP-MAS spectroscopies. The grafting of acetyl moieties on cellulose surface prevented MFC hornification upon drying, and improved the redispersibility of the powdered nanofibers in chloroform. Bionanocomposites reinforced with acetylated MFC showed improved filler dispersion, higher thermal stability, and reduced hygroscopicity with respect to those prepared with unmodified MFC. Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) highlighted the reinforcing potential of unmodified and acetylated MFC on the viscoelastic properties of the neat PLA. But more interesting, an increase in the PLA glass transition temperature was detected when using the 8.5% acetylated MFC at 17 wt%, indicating an improved compatibility at the fiber-matrix interface. These findings suggest that the final properties of bionanocomposite materials can be controlled by adjusting the acetyl content of the MFC.

Novel bionanocomposites from poly(lactic acid) and
surface functionalized microfibrillated cellulose

239th National Meeting (2010)

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Novel bionanocomposites from poly(lactic acid) and surface functionalized microfibrillated cellulose