Concentrations Of Microcrystalline Cellulose Research Articles

Utility of Microcrystalline Cellulose for Improving Drug Content Uniformity in Tablet Manufacturing Using Direct Powder Compression.

Direct powder compression is the simplest tablet manufacturing method. However, segregation occurs when the drug content is low. It is difficult to assure drug content uniformity in these cases. In this study, we evaluated microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as a segregation inhibitor in pharmaceutical powders. We assessed the influence of MCC concentration and mixing time on the physical properties of tablets. The tablet formulation comprised acetaminophen, lactose hydrate, cornstarch, MCC (0%, 10%, or 20%), croscarmellose sodium, and magnesium stearate (Mg-St). All powders except Mg-St were premixed for 5, 15, or 25min. Mg-St was then added and mixed for 5min to prepare nine pharmaceutical powders. Flowability index and practical angle of internal friction were measured. Tablets were also prepared, and their weight variation, hardness, friability, disintegration time, and drug content variation were evaluated. MCC slightly decreased pharmaceutical powder flowability. Tablet hardness increased and disintegration time decreased with increasing MCC concentration. MCC mixed for ≥ 15min also significantly lowered drug content variation. A contour plot was prepared to assess the effect of MCC concentration and mixing time on the physical properties of tablets. It was determined that tablets with 50-80N hardness, ≤ 3.5min disintegration time, and ≤ 3% drug content variation can be prepared when MCC concentration is 6.5-8.5% and the mixing time is 19-24min. Therefore, MCC is effective as a segregation inhibitor, and the addition of MCC to tablet formulation improves drug content uniformity.

An Artificial Neural Network Approach to Predict the Effects of Formulation and Process Variables on Prednisone Release from a Multipartite System.

The impact of formulation and process variables on the in-vitro release of prednisone from a multiple-unit pellet system was investigated. Box-Behnken Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to generate multivariate experiments. The extrusion-spheronization method was used to produce pellets and dissolution studies were performed using United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) Apparatus 2 as described in USP XXIV. Analysis of dissolution test samples was performed using a reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method. Four formulation and process variables viz., microcrystalline cellulose concentration, sodium starch glycolate concentration, spheronization time and extrusion speed were investigated and drug release, aspect ratio and yield were monitored for the trained artificial neural networks (ANN). To achieve accurate prediction, data generated from experimentation were used to train a multi-layer perceptron (MLP) using back propagation (BP) and the Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno (BFGS) 57 training algorithm until a satisfactory value of root mean square error (RMSE) was observed. The study revealed that the in-vitro release profile of prednisone was significantly impacted by microcrystalline cellulose concentration and sodium starch glycolate concentration. Increasing microcrystalline cellulose concentration retarded dissolution rate whereas increasing sodium starch glycolate concentration improved dissolution rate. Spheronization time and extrusion speed had minimal impact on prednisone release but had a significant impact on extrudate and pellet quality. This work demonstrated that RSM can be successfully used concurrently with ANN for dosage form manufacture to permit the exploration of experimental regions that are omitted when using RSM alone.

Development of near infrared spectroscopic calibration models for in-line determination of low drug concentration, bulk density, and relative specific void volume within a feed frame

This study describes the development of a near infrared (NIR) calibration model for real time determination of drug concentration, powder density, and porosity or relative specific void volume (RSVV) of 3.00%w/w acetaminophen blends within a feed frame. The NIR calibration model was developed from 1.50 to 4.50%w/w of acetaminophen, using a high variability of major excipients (from 12.92 to 81.95%w/w) which facilitates the prediction of powder density and RSVV based on near infrared calibration spectra. The model using second derivative as spectral preprocessing explained the changes related to acetaminophen concentration in the first latent variable. The second latent variable was related to changes in concentration of microcrystalline cellulose and lactose in the powder blends. NIR calibrations were also developed based on the bulk density and RSVV of the powder blends using the same design as the API model, due to the physical properties of the particles and their effects on the NIR spectra. The RSVV was predicted for the independent set blends with an RSEP(%) below 4% with a significantly low bias (0.04 cm3/g) from reference values of 1.33 to 1.58 cm3/g. The bulk density model also exhibited excellent predictions with RSEP(%) below 2.6% and significantly low bias (0.01 g/cm3) from reference values of 0.45 to 0.51 g/cm3. The excellent results obtained show the potential of near infrared spectroscopic measurements within the feed frame for a Process Analytical Technology method to control the critical properties such as tablet mass, hardness and dissolution in batch and continuous manufacturing processes.

A Surfactant Directed Microcrystalline Cellulose/Polyaniline Composite with Enhanced Electrochemical Properties.

In this study a cationic surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), was used as a soft template for in situ chemical polymerization of aniline on the surface of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC). The morphology of the wire-like and porous nanostructure of the resulting composite was highly dependent on the MCC and CTAB concentrations. The effect of the MCC and CTAB concentrations on the electrochemical and morphological properties of the polyaniline (PAni) nanocomposite was studied. Cyclic voltammograms of modified PAni/MCC/CTAB electrode displayed a high current response and the effect of scan rate on the current response confirmed a diffusion controlled process on the surface of the electrode that makes it suitable for sensor applications. The overlapping characteristic peaks of pure PAni and MCC caused peak broadening at 3263 cm−1 in the IR spectra of PAni/MCC/CTAB nanocomposite that revealed the interaction between NH of PAni and OH group of MCC via electrostatic interactions. The addition of MCC to PAni through chemical polymerization decreased the thermal stability of composite compared to pure PAni. Lower crystallinity was observed in the XRD diffractogram, with 2 theta values of 22.8, 16.5, and 34.6 for PAni/MCC, confirming the formation of PAni on the MCC surface.

A facile approach of developing micro crystalline cellulose reinforced cementitious composites with improved microstructure and mechanical performance

In the present study, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) reinforced cementitious composites have been developed using a short and less energy intensive physical dispersion technique. MCC–cement mortar specimens were prepared through addition of aqueous MCC suspensions to the cement-sand mixture. Aqueous MCC suspensions (0.4%, 0.8%, 1.2%, 1.6% and 2% MCC, by weight) were prepared through magnetic stirring of pre-soaked MCC powder for only 45 min. The flow behaviour of freshly prepared MCC-mortar paste as well as bulk density, mechanical performance, microstructure, porosity, water uptake and hydration products of developed cementitious composites were characterized. It was noted that with the increase of MCC content, the flow of mortar paste decreased significantly. Maximum improvements of 20.5% in flexural strength, 19.8% in compressive strength, 100% in flexural modulus and 27.2% in fracture energy were achieved after 28 days of hydration. Mechanical performance was found to be better at lower MCC concentrations and at early hydration days. The addition of MCC significantly reduced the pore size of cementitious matrix, leading to increased dry bulk density and reduced water uptake as compared to the plain mortar specimens.

Thermal properties and degradability of low density polyethylene microcrystalline cellulose composites

The effect of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) on the thermal properties (melting and crystallization temperatures and percentage crystallinity) and degradation of low density polyethylene (LDPE)–MCC blends were investigated. Weight percentages of MCC were varied at 0, 0.5, 1, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, and 30 wt%. The thermal properties of the composites were studied using differential scanning calorimetry while the degradation test was carried out using soil burial method; the weight loss of LDPE/MCC composites was measured and analyzed over a period of 120 days. It has been found that the addition of MCC to LDPE increased the crystallization temperature from 99°C to 103.5°C and decreased the melting temperature from 117°C to 113.6°C. A rule of a nucleating agent has been given as an interpretation to this increase in the crystallization temperature and intensity of crystals by the increase of MCC content. The dramatic reduction was in the percentage crystallinity where the value reduced from 58% for neat LDPE to about 11% for LDPE/30 wt% MCC. On the other hand, the addition of MCC has a little effect on degradation of LDPE; the weight loss did not exceed 1.5% over a period of 120 days. It seems that even at high MCC concentration, LDPE long carbon chains restrict and increase the resistance to microorganism attack and hence, reduce the hydrolysis and degradability.

Comparison of Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Polyoxymethylene/Cellulose and Poly(Lactic Acid)/Cellulose Composites

The objective of this study is to fabricate the polyoxymethylene (POM)/microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/MCC composites, and to compare the effect of MCC on the morphology and mechanical properties of POM and PLA. The polymer composites were prepared by melt mixing in an internal mixer and molded by compression molding. The MCC concentrations were 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15 and 10% by weight. From scanning electron microscopy study observes the fracture surface of POM and PLA composites is much rough and the roughness increases with increasing MCC content. This observation indicates MCC induces the ductile fracture characteristic of POM and PLA. The addition of MCC can improve the impact strength of PLA composite and improve Young’s modulus of both POM and PLA composites. While the tensile strength and strain at break decrease after adding MCC. In summary, MCC can enhance the morphology and mechanical properties of PLA composites is better than POM composites.

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF FAST DISINTEGRATING LOSARTAN POTASSIUM TABLETS BY FORMAL EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

In the treatment of hypertension fast onset of action is the major concern. The problem of slow onset of action of drugs can be overcome by development of appropriate dosage forms. Fast disintegrating tablets in mouth are best suited and have gained popularity in the oral antihypertensive drug therapy. These are advantageous over other conventional systems in terms of patient compliance, rapid onset of action, accurate dosing, good chemical stability, convenience of self-administration and compactness. Losartan potassium is widely used as an antihypertensive drug, which is a potent drug candidate for developing in to Fast Dissolving Tablets (FDT’s). It has low bioavailability due to first pass metabolism. Hence the main objective of the study was to formulate fast dissolving tablets of Losartan potassium to achieve a better dissolution rate and further improving the bioavailability of the drug. Fast dissolving tablet of Losartan potassium were formulated by using microcrystalline cellulose with different concentration of super disintegrants like sodium starch glycolate and Isabgol Mucilage. All the batches were prepared by direct compression.
 API characterization studies were conducted to check the purity of API .The tablets were evaluated for Pre compression parameters and post compression parameters. Before the formulation of the tablets IR spectroscopic studies were also performed to check the compatibility with the excipients.
 A 23 full factorial design was applied to investigate the combine effect of 3 formulation variables. Here the concentration of Isabgol mucilage, concentration of Sodium Starch Glycolate and concentration of Microcrystalline Cellulose were taken as independent variable X1, X2 & X3 respectively and their effect of disintegration time is studied as dependent parameter. To represent the data Design Expert software is used.

Poly (vinyl alcohol) green composites reinforced with microcrystalline cellulose through sonication

Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) from sago seed shell in different weight% (1, 2, and 3 relative to PVA) were added, sonicated followed by solution casting into glass plate to prepare green composites. Composite films were characterized using UV-VIS, FTIR, ATR-FTIR, TGA, DSC, and mechanical testing. UV-Visible spectra show good transparency of prepared films. FTIR and ATR-FTIR reveal the presence of hydrogen bond between polymer matrix and MCC. DSC analysis gives a slight increase in glass transition temperature, in addition lowering in melting temperature. TGA results show slight increase in onset decomposition temperature for lower MCC concentration compared to the neat PVA film. Tensile strength measurement established that the incorporation of 1 weight% of MCC increased the tensile strength compared to the neat PVA film.

Development of extended-release formulation of domperidone using a blend of Raphia hookeri gum and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose as tablet matrix

Purpose: To develop an extended-release formulation of domperidone using a blend of Raphia hookeri gum and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose as tablet matrix.Methods: Tablets (400 mg) containing 30 mg domperidone (DPD) were formulated using binary mixtures of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and Raphia hookeri gum (RHG) as matrix former; and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as direct compression excipient. The proportions of the matrix formers (40 % of tablet weight) was varied as 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100. The composition of the matrix former was also kept constant (50:50) while MCC was varied as 40, 30, 20 and 10 %. The tablets were evaluated for compact density, tensile strength, friability and drug release over 24 h.Results: The tensile strength of tablets decreased while their friability increased with increase in the proportion of RHG. A similar trend was observed with decrease in the concentration of MCC. Tablets containing RHG alone as matrix former and 40 % MCC as direct compression excipient had tensile strength of 0.95 MNm-2, friability of 1.07 % and cumulative drug release of 83.2 % over a period of 24 h. Tablets containing equal proportions of HPMC and RHG as matrix former had the best release properties of 95.0 % over a period of 24 h.Conclusion: RHG is comparable with HPMC in terms of extending the release of domperidone for a once daily administration. A suitable combination of the two polymers for use as a matrix former is superior to either of the individual polymers.Keywords: Domperidone, Extended drug release, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, Raphia hookeri gum, Tablet properties

Calibration Transfer of a Quantitative Transmission Raman PLS Model: Direct Transfer vs. Global Modeling

Global regulatory agencies have encouraged the use of process analytical technology (PAT) to assure quality in the pharmaceutical industry. A frequently cited obstacle to the implementation of spectroscopy-based PAT methods is the difficulty associated with directly transferring calibration models between PAT instruments. The goal of this study was to compare model transfer strategies for method transfer between two transmission Raman spectroscopy (TRS) instruments. The calibration and test samples were pharmaceutical compacts of acetaminophen and excipients. The experimental design was a 3 factor by 5 level circumscribed central composite design of active pharmaceutical ingredient, lactose, and microcrystalline cellulose concentrations. The calibration and test data were collected using two instruments. Quantitative models were constructed using partial least squares regression. Global calibration modeling and direct model transfer were compared to evaluate opportunities for situations involving method transfer, calibration update, and line extension. Models were compared using a t test-based method to evaluate performance statistics. Statistical analysis demonstrated equivalent performance of the global modeling and direct transfer methods. This work demonstrated that a quantitative transmission Raman model could be directly transferred across instruments, thus avoiding the challenges and resources necessary when creating global models.

Formulation and Optimization of Lansoprazole Pellets Using Factorial Design Prepared by Extrusion-Spheronization Technique Using Carboxymethyl Tamarind Kernel Powder.

In the present study, Lansoprazole pellets were prepared employing a novel excipient Carboxymethyl tamarind kernel powder (CMTKP) using extrusion-spheronization technique. Various research studies including patents have been carried out on this polymer. Pellet formulation was optimized for formulation parameters (concentration of microcrystalline cellulose, CMTKP, croscarmellose sodium and isopropyl alcohol). Process parameters (speed and duration of spheronization) were optimized using factorial design. The pellets were evaluated for yield, bulk and tapped density, particle size, hardness, drug content, disintegration time and drug release. The optimized batch showed 93.53% yield, 0.307 kg/cm2 hardness, 2.15 mm average particle size, 292 sec disintegration time and 90.46% drug content. Drug release of the optimized batch (2F7) and marketed formulation (LANZOL cap) was found to be 82.33% and 80.07%, respectively. An accelerated study indicated that optimized formulation was stable.

Effect of moderate electric fields in the properties of starch and chitosan films reinforced with microcrystalline cellulose

Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) can provide improved properties when the aim is the development of biodegradable packaging materials. In this work the physicochemical properties of polysaccharide-based films (chitosan and starch) with the incorporation of MCC and the application of moderate electric field (MEF) and ultrasonic bath (UB) as treatments, were evaluated. For each treatment, the thickness, moisture content, solubility, water vapor permeability, contact angle, mechanical properties, along with its color and opacity were determined. The surface morphologies of the films were assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were also performed. It was observed that the addition of different concentrations of MCC as well as the application of MEF are responsible for changes in the properties of the films, being this effect dependent on the polysaccharide used. Chitosan-based films were slightly yellow, transparent and presented a more homogeneous structure. The use of MEF was efficient in decreasing the permeability to water vapor in chitosan based films without MCC, as well as in production of films with a more hydrophobic surface. The addition of MCC promoted more opaque, rigid, less flexible and less hydrophobic films. Starch-based films were whitish, with a more heterogeneous structure and the application of MEF generated more hydrophilic films with lower tensile strength and Young’s modulus. The films with MCC were more opaque, less flexible and less hydrophilic than the films without MCC. The composites presented good thermal properties, which increases their applicability as packaging materials. Therefore, the incorporation of MCC into polysaccharide-based films as well as the application of MEF can be an approach to change the properties of films.

Development of green composites of poly (vinyl alcohol) reinforced with microcrystalline cellulose derived from sago seed shells

Reinforcing poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) with biopolymers like microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) provides interesting route for the preparation of green composites. In this study, PVA and MCC from sago seed shell in different weight% were prepared by intense sonication followed by solution casting into glass plate. Composites were prepared by adding 1, 2 and 3 weight% of MCC, which were characterized using FTIR, ATR‐FTIR, XRD, TGA, DSC, SEM, AFM, UV‐Vis, and mechanical testing. Particle size distribution of used MCC was analyzed by DLS. ATR‐FTIR spectra reveal the incorporation of MCC into the polymer matrix through hydrogen bonding. XRD pattern shows the decrease in relative intensity compared to PVA film and broadening of peaks at different MCC concentrations. DSC analysis reveals the variations in the glass transition temperature. In addition to lowering in melting temperature, changes in shape and area are attributed to the different degrees of crystallinity due to the existence of polymer‐polymer interactions between PVA and MCC. The results obtained from ATR‐FTIR, XRD and DSC substantiate each other. TGA results reveal the increased thermal stability compared to the PVA film. The SEM analysis shows the uniform distribution for lower loading, which is further supported by AFM. UV‐Visible spectra reveal the good transparency of prepared films. Mechanical testing was also performed, in which 1 weight% gained tensile strength. The TGA and mechanical testing results showed that MCC as reinforcement in PVA film can improve thermal and mechanical strength. DLS measurements show that the particle size of MCC is >100 nm. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3033–3039, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers

Synthesis and characteristics of lignin-derived solid acid catalysts for microcrystalline cellulose hydrolysis

Three kinds of solid acid catalysts were prepared from alkali lignin in the waste liquor of pulping using carbonation- sulfonation method with different pretreatment. The lignin-derived solid acids (LDSAs) were characterized by FESEM, XRD, FTIR, TGA, BET and acid-base titration, respectively. A comparison study on the catalytic performance of LDSA prepared by different pretreatment method before carbonation in the hydrolysis of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was carried out. Results showed that the LDSA prepared by chemical activation with phosphoric acid (LPC-SO3H) exhibited superior catalytic activity due to its higher densities of -COOH group (1.68 mmol/g) as binding site and -SO3H group (0.88 mmol/g) as catalytic site as well as its larger specific surface area (488.4 m2/g) than those of the other two LDSAs. A total reducing sugar yield of 50.8% in MCC hydrolysis was obtained under the reaction conditions of temperature of 180 °C, time of 3 h, MCC concentration of 6 mg/mL and mass ratio of catalyst to MCC of 3.3 (w/w). Additionally, the value activation energy for hydrolysis of MCC to reducing sugars using LPC-SO3H was 83.31 kJ/mol, which was smaller than that using sulfuric acid.

Influence of microcrystalline cellulose on the microrheological property and freeze-thaw stability of soybean protein hydrolysate stabilized curcumin emulsion

The impact of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) on the physical stability, microrheological property and freeze-thaw stability of papain hydrolysate of soybean isolate protein (SPIH) stabilized curcumin emulsion was studied. Curcumin emulsions were prepared by Microfluidizer containing SPIH and various concentrations of MCC. The curcumin emulsions were assessed by zeta potential, average particle size through dynamic light scattering technique (DLS), stability index by Turbiscan and microrheological behavior through diffusive wave spectroscopy (DWS) technique. With addition of MCC, the negative charge of the droplets was increased, which indicated that the negatively charged fraction from MCC interacted with the protein at the interface. An increase in droplet size and decrease in TSI were noted with increasing MCC concentration. It demonstrated that enough MCC changed microrheological property of curcumin emulsions from purely viscous to viscoelastic over the range of decorrelation times, indicating that the droplets were not free to move due to the droplets network interaction. Freeze-thaw stability analysis demonstrated that MCC brought about a remarkable improvement, which can be attributed to the enhancement of repulsive steric forces between the curcumin droplets. It demonstrated that combined enzymatic hydrolysate of protein and addition of polysaccharide MCC could be an effective method for protecting bioactive compound in emulsions.

Influence of Tableting on Enzymatic Activity of Papain along with Determination of Its Percolation Threshold with Microcrystalline Cellulose.

The binary mixture tablets of papain and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCP), carrageenan, tragacanth, and agar were prepared by direct compression. Carrageenan, tragacanth, and agar provided maximum protection to enzyme activity compared to MCC and DCP. However, stability studies indicated highest loss of enzyme activity with carrageenan, tragacanth, and agar. Therefore, compression behaviour of different binary mixtures of papain with MCC at different compaction pressures, that is, 40–280 MPa, was studied according to Heckel equation. The compressibility studies of binary mixtures indicated brittle behavior of papain. The application of percolation theory on the relationship between critical density as a function of enzyme activity and mixture composition revealed the presence of percolation threshold for binary mixture. Papain-MCC mixture composition showed significant percolation threshold at 18.48% (w/w) papain loading. Microcrystalline cellulose provided higher protection during stability study. However, higher concentrations of microcrystalline cellulose, probably as dominant particles, do not protect the enzyme with their plastic deformation. Below the percolation threshold, that is, 18.48% (w/w) papain amount in mixture with plastic excipient, activity loss increases strongly because of higher shearing forces during compaction due to system dominance of plastic particles. This mixture range should therefore be avoided to get robust formulation of papain.

Mechanical Properties of Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) Filled Engineering Thermoplastic Composites

In this study, engineering thermoplastic composites were prepared from microcrystalline cellulose (MCC)-filled nylon 6. MCC were added to nylon 6 using melt mixing to produce compounded pellets. The MCC-filled nylon 6 composites with varying concentrations of MCC (from 2.5 to 30 wt%) were prepared by injection molding. The tensile and flexural properties of the nylon 6 composites were increased significantly with the addition of MCC. The maximum strength and modulus of elasticity for the nylon 6 composites were achieved at a MCC weight fraction of 20 %. The Izod impact strength of composites decreased with the incorporation of MCC without any surface treatments and coupling agent. This observation is quite expected for filled polymer systems and has been commonly observed. There was a strong correlation between density and tensile (r = 0.94) and flexural modulus of elasticity (r = 0.9). MCC filled composites manufactured by injection method had highly uniform density distribution through their thickness. The higher mechanical results with lower density demonstrate that MCC can be used as a sufficient reinforcing material for low cost, eco-friendly composites in the automotive industry especially for under-the-hood applications (engine covers, intake manifolds and radiator end tanks) as well as in other applications such as the building and construction industries, packaging, consumer products etc.

Microcrystalline Cellulose as Reinforcement in Thermoplastic Starch/Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) Films

Lignocellulosic fibers or their derivatives may be used to reinforce packaging materials. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of adding microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) on the microstructure and properties of thermoplastic starch (TPS)/poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) films. MCC concentrations of 0, 1, 3 and 5 g 100 g−1 TPS/PBAT were added to mixtures containing 56 g 100 g−1 of TPS and 44 g 100 g−1 of PBAT. The morphology of the film changed slightly and the storage modulus increased when MCC was added at the concentration of 3 g 100 g−1 TPS/PBAT. No differences were observed in the Fourier transform infrared spectra and in the crystallinity of the films without and with 3 g MCC 100 g−1 TPS/PBAT. The tensile strength (medium value 6.52 MPa), elongation at break (medium value 723.83 %) and water vapor permeability (WVP; medium value 5.68 × 10−11 g m−1 s−1 Pa−1) of the films with and without MCC showed no significant differences. The films with 3 and 5 g MCC 100 g−1 TPS/PBAT were stiffer than control film. The low interaction of MCC with the polymer matrix (mainly with PBAT), the processing technique, and the low concentration of MCC may have contributed to these results.

Beta-phase enhancement in polyvinylidene fluoride through filler addition: comparing cellulose with carbon nanotubes and clay

The beta-phase in polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is responsible for its ferro-, piezo- and pyroelectric properties, key for memory, sensing and actuation applications. Filler addition as a route to enhance the smart beta-phase in PVDF is presented in this study. PVDF composites with varying concentrations of microcrystalline cellulose, carbon nanotubes and kaolinite clay were prepared by solution-sonication method and subsequently cast into thin standing composite films. Crystallinity of PVDF and its composites were found to be similar. Phase evolution studies showed that addition of microcrystalline cellulose yields a beta-phase fraction comparable to carbon nanotubes and significantly higher than that of clay. The mechanism of interaction between microcrystalline cellulose and PVDF is also proposed.