Regenerated cellulose/halloysite nanotube nanocomposite films prepared with an ionic liquid

Abstract

Regenerated cellulose/halloysite nanotube (RC/HNT) nanocomposite films were successfully prepared in ionic liquid, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (BMIMCl) using solution casting method. The structural, morphological, thermal and mechanical properties of RC/HNT nanocomposites were investigated. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed a cellulose II crystalline structure and well dispersed HNT in RC/HNT nanocomposite films. At 6 wt.% HNT film, tensile strength and Young's modulus of RC films improved by 55.3% and 100%, respectively. Moisture absorption by the nanocomposites in an environment with 75% constant relative humidity was reduced by the addition of HNT to the RC. The presence of HNT enhanced the thermal stability and char yield of RC. The significant reinforcing effects of HNTs demonstrated that there is a possible interface interaction between cellulose and HNT which yielded better thermal and mechanical properties of the nanocomposite films as compared to pure RC.