Abstract
AbstractIn a manner of addressing challenges in scalable processing of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites through extrusion methods, this study reports a very clean processing approach of incorporating cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) into a TPU matrix, with no acid or organic‐solvents usage. It involves a mechanical deconstruction of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) into nanoscale particles in water and polyol through scalable bead‐milling, vacuum drying, and followed by twin‐screw reactive extrusion with isocyanate and chain extender. The thermal stability of CNC was higher than that of typically acid‐hydrolyzed CNC and suitable for processing with the precursors of TPU at typical processing temperature range (175–190°C). The CNC incorporation at very low loadings (0.5, 0.8 wt%) through this methodology resulted in substantial enhancements in tensile properties (for example, up to 28% in strength and toughness) without any significant stiffening effect. Moreover, the nanocomposites retained elastic properties, including elongation at break (%), resilience, and creep resistance. Their chemical properties and thermal transitions were also found to support the retained thermoplastic behavior while improving mechanical performance.
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