Potential of oxidative polymerization coating of cellulose nano-fiber by dopamine

Abstract

In order to develop functional natural fiber reinforcements derived from cellulose nanofibers (CNF), surface modification of CNF by oxidative polymerization of dopamine was carried out. Resulting polydopamine (PDA)-coated CNF was blended with polypropylene (PP) to prepare the surface-modified CNF/PP nanocomposites. Obtained PDA-coated CNF and its nanocomposites were analyzed as to their morphologies, structures, and various properties. From analyses by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermogravimetry, it was clarified that the treated CNF surface was homogeneously coated by PDA without re-aggregation of CNF. Moreover, it was confirmed that the PDA-coated CNF/PP nanocomposites had excellent mechanical performances and good antistatic properties.