Abstract
Bio-nanocomposites were prepared by an in-situ growth process through the direct addition of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) into the Acetobacter xylinum inoculated medium and compared with composites made by impregnation of bacterial cellulose (BC) gels with a PVA solution. Mechanical property tests showed that the presence of PVA in the BC acts as a plasticizer, interrupting hydrogen bonding between cellulose fibrils within the BC network. This resulted in a reduction in Young's modulus and an increase in toughness compared to pure BC sheet, especially for in-situ grown samples. Interestingly, the small amount of added PVA turns the BC sheet into optical transparent nanocomposite films with excellent mechanical properties.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
