Environmental issues are growing in importance due to waste management and depletion of fossil resources. However, modern society is largely based on polymeric materials; and although it is not reasonable to think to completely remove the use of plastics, it is necessary to start thinking about a more sustainable economy. A key action in this regard is the development of innovative materials from renewable resources and with sustainable end-of-life. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) is a bio-based and biodegradable polyester synthesized by bacteria. In order to enhance the thermal and mechanical properties of the biopolymer, acetylated cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were melt compounded into the polymer at increasing concentration: 5 wt%, 10 wt%, 15 wt% and 20 wt%. The obtained nanocomposites were extruded to obtain a constant filament used with an FDM printer. It was demonstrated that the biocomposites are printable and different designs were realized: simple shapes, for characterization of rheological and thermo-mechanical properties, and also more complex architectures with vertical development and axis inclination. This work demonstrated the 3D printability of this new material and the results showed also improved thermal stability and thermomechanical properties of the composites. These findings were attributed to the optimized dispersibility of acetylated CNC into the biopolymeric matrix. Furthermore, the findings of this research show that CNC also offers a way to tune the degree of disintegration of the composite materials, in line with the nanocellulose content. This material and approach open new possible applications for creating bio-based, sustainable and biodegradable objects, combining the advantages of eco-friendly materials with the advantages of additive manufacturing and its tailoring properties. Biomedical engineering could be an interesting example of application, creating customized medical devices.

Bio-based and biodegradable composite: Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) matrix reinforced with acetylated cellulose nanocrystals for 3D printing applications

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.