Dispersion of Nanocellulose (NC) in Polypropylene (PP) and Polyethylene (PE) Matrix

Abstract

PP and PE are considered as environmental polluter mainly because of their greater resistance toward biological degradation in the environment upon disposal. Although this property contributes to their popularity for development of medical devices, still the repercussions of PP and PE litter create a serious threat for chocking of water ways, sewage pipes, etc. Since one of the main objectives to use NC as reinforcer for polymer matrixes is to develop environmentally friendly composites, it is essential to review the potential of NC-based PP and PE composites as environment friendly natural nanofiller. Highly crystalline nature, aspect ratio, well-established extraction processes, renewability, and sustainability of NC make it one of the best nanofillers to improve the material properties of different hydrophilic polymer. The mechanical performance of resulting hybrids is mainly governed by the proper dispersion of NC inside polymer. Because of their highly hydrophilic nature, it is always a challenge to mix NC with hydrophobic polymer matrixes such as PP and PE. The present chapter is aimed to discuss the dispersion of NC in PP and PE matrix and associated challenges with brief description of possible solutions and future direction.