The dispersion and distribution of the nanocellulose reinforcing phase are the key factors that determine the interfacial adhesion of nanocellulose in polymeric matrices, and ultimately dictate the structure and properties of the cellulose nanocomposites. In this study, we have used two new compounding methods to make cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs)-poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites: (1) solvent-assisted PLA infiltration to CNF foams and (2) ball milled CNF followed by melt-blended with PLA. These two methods were compared with direct mixing of crushed freeze-dried CNF in PLA and the covalent surface functionalization of CNF using 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS). The compounded CNF-PLA mixture was used to generate CNF-PLA composite specimens. The mechanical strengths, morphological properties, chemical structures, and thermal stability of the composites were characterized using numerous methods. The results of the different manufacturing techniques are discussed and compared. This study demonstrated size reduction and solvent-assisted infiltration as alternative methods to improve the dispersion and interfacial bonding of nanocellulose in a matrix for the manufacture of green composites.

Improved dispersion and interfacial bonding between nanocellulose and poly(lactic acid) using solvent infiltration and ball milling methods

2019 Fall National Meeting

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