Homogeneous dispersion of cellulose nanoparticles (NC) in polymer matrices is difficult to achieve by means of traditional melt processing techniques owing to the high tendency of NC to form aggregates. Proper dispersion and distribution of nanoparticles in the polymer matrix are the prerequisite for obtaining polymer nanocomposites with improved physical and mechanical properties. The present paper reports on the preparation, functionalisation and characterization of PLA/NC and PLA/PVAc/NC nanocomposites obtained by dispersion of NC in PVAc acqueous emulsion (PVAc/NC) as well as by mixing in organic solvents, followed by melt blending with bulk PLA in Brabender mixer. Owing to the miscibility of PVAc with PLA and the biodegradability of their blends [3], PLA/PVAc/NC nanocomposites are expected to display a wide application potential as ecocompatible systems with tunable properties.
Preparation and characterization of biodegradable polymer blend composites containing cellulose micro- and nano-fibers
M Pracella;
2013
Abstract
Homogeneous dispersion of cellulose nanoparticles (NC) in polymer matrices is difficult to achieve by means of traditional melt processing techniques owing to the high tendency of NC to form aggregates. Proper dispersion and distribution of nanoparticles in the polymer matrix are the prerequisite for obtaining polymer nanocomposites with improved physical and mechanical properties. The present paper reports on the preparation, functionalisation and characterization of PLA/NC and PLA/PVAc/NC nanocomposites obtained by dispersion of NC in PVAc acqueous emulsion (PVAc/NC) as well as by mixing in organic solvents, followed by melt blending with bulk PLA in Brabender mixer. Owing to the miscibility of PVAc with PLA and the biodegradability of their blends [3], PLA/PVAc/NC nanocomposites are expected to display a wide application potential as ecocompatible systems with tunable properties.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
