Abstract
The barrier and mechanical properties of polymer matrices are affected by the polymer crystallization kinetics and the incorporation of nanoparticles can modify the nucleation density as well as the rate and mechanism of crystallization. In this study, a nanocomposite of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) containing cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) was prepared in order to evaluate the effect of the CNC content on the crystallization kinetics of the polymer matrix. Dimethylformamide, a solvent of PLA, was used to replace the aqueous medium for the dispersion of the CNC, to facilitate the preparation of PLA films with dispersed CNC. Higher levels of CNC in the films induced an increase in the crystallization rate and reduced the degree of crystallinity without affecting the dimensions of the crystal lattice. In conclusion, the incorporation of CNC into PLA influences the crystallization kinetics, which significantly affects the PLA processing conditions.
Highlights
Particles with nanometric dimensions, such as carbon nanotubes, nanoclays and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), have been used as reinforcing materials in polymer matrices
Changing the solvent medium is one way to prevent the agglomeration of CNC in non-aqueous solution and obtain nanocomposites of a hydrophobic polymer matrix
The morphology and dimensions of the CNC were evaluated through transmission electron microscopy
Summary
Particles with nanometric dimensions, such as carbon nanotubes, nanoclays and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), have been used as reinforcing materials in polymer matrices. A bleaching process is required to remove the non-cellulosic components of the lignocellulosic fibers, followed by acid hydrolysis to isolate the CNC. These nanomaterials are of particular importance, considering that cellulose is one of the most abundant renewable resources and a biodegradable polymer.[1,3,4]
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