Developing Sustainable Reinforcement PLA/NCC from Kapok to Improve Mechanical and Electrical Properties Composites with PVA Matrix

Abstract

This study investigates the enhancement of mechanical and electrical properties of composite electrolyte membranes through the incorporation of polylactic acid (PLA) fibers and nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) derived from kapok. PLA fibers were prepared using electrospinning, while kapok NCC was synthesized through pulping, bleaching, and hydrolysis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed an average PLA fiber diameter of 597 nm and a kapok NCC grain size of 70.2 nm. The composite electrolyte membranes were prepared by combining polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), potassium hydroxide (KOH), glycerol, and varying amounts of PLA/NCC reinforcement. Tensile tests showed that the addition of 0.05 g kapok NCC improved the tensile strength by 87.6% and increased elongation. Impedance analysis demonstrated a decrease in impedance with the incorporation of PLA and kapok NCC fibers, indicating enhanced conductivity. The sample with 0.05 g kapok NCC (FKP5) exhibited the highest conductivity of 0.068 mS/cm. Cyclic voltammetry revealed more pronounced reduction and oxidation reactions in FKP5, while electrical power measurements showed a maximum power of 12.6 mW for FKP5. The improved mechanical and electrical properties of the composite membranes containing PLA and kapok NCC highlight their potential for use in sustainable batteries and other industrial applications.