In recent years, researchers have seen overwhelming attention in the utilization of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) in photonic applications due to their outstanding properties of renewability, biodegradability, excellent mechanical strength, and liquid crystalline behavior. The self-assembled structure of dried CNC films limits their application at a commercial scale due to the brittleness of film and structural irregularities. Herein, we have proposed a novel approach for enhancing the properties of CNC films by coating with solutions of polyamide and Polypropylene for photonic applications. The local interlocking of radial symmetry of CNC in the form of chiral nematic ordering with that of spherulite structure of polymer has enhanced the mechanical and thermal properties of films. The growth of polycrystalline polymeric spherulite structures on the films was studied with polarized optical microscopy and morphological analysis. The intermolecular interactions and physical entanglement of the structures gave a synergistic effect by improving the flexibility and tensile strength of the films. The sensing properties are evaluated for the films for different parameters. The protection through coating design allows for the development of multi-functional and portable assemblies for photo-sensing devices.

Synergistic interactions of polymeric spherulite coating on chiral nematic self-ordered CNC nanostructured films for photonic applications

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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