In-Plane Compression and Biopolymer Permeation Enable Super-stretchable Fiber Webs for Thermoforming toward 3-D Structures

Abstract

The typically poor ductility of cellulosic fibers and ensuing bonded networks and paper webs set limits on any effort to produce associated three-dimensional structures without relying on chemical, often unsustainable, approaches. To address this challenge, we report on a facile and green method that combines mechanical and biopolymer treatment: in-plane compression and aqueous solution permeation via spraying. The first enabled network extensibility while the second, which relied on the use of either food-grade gelatin, guar gum, or polylactic acid, improved network strength and stiffness. As a result, an unprecedented elongation of ∼30% was achieved after unrestrained drying of the fiber web. At the same time, the structures experienced a significant increase in tensile strength and stiffness (by ∼306% and ∼690%, respectively). Such simultaneous property improvement, otherwise very difficult to achieve, represents a substantial gain in the material’s toughness, which results from the synergistic effects...