Facile preparation of optically transparent and hydrophobic cellulose nanofibril composite films
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-23-2015
Abstract
Cellulose nanofibril (CNF) and epoxy nanocomposites with high visible light transmittance and low water sensitivity were manufactured by laminating thin layers of epoxy resin onto CNF films prepared through, pressurized filtration in combination with oven drying. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) studies suggest that the resin component bonded to the CNF substrate well. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) observation reveals that the resin lamination led to smoother film surface, which helped enhance UV-vis transmittance. The addition of epoxy resin had little effect on the static and dynamic mechanical strength. However, crystalline and interconnected CNFs significantly reduced the loss factor and shifted the glass transition of composite to a high temperature. Compared to pure CNF films, the CNF/epoxy composites showed a 20% improved transparence in the visible light range. The CNF/epoxy composites demonstrated a sufficient water resistance. This composite film could be considered as a potential substrate material in the application of flexible electronics substrates.
Publication Source (Journal or Book title)
Industrial Crops and Products
First Page
13
Last Page
20
Recommended Citation
Qing, Y., Cai, Z., Wu, Y., Yao, C., Wu, Q., & Li, X. (2015). Facile preparation of optically transparent and hydrophobic cellulose nanofibril composite films. Industrial Crops and Products, 77, 13-20. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2015.08.016