Direct synthesis of a robust cellulosic composite from cellulose acetate and a nanofibrillated bacterial cellulose sol

Abstract

Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) are potential candidates as environmentally friendly reinforcing fibers, and their compatibilization with plastics has attracted widespread interest. In this study, we developed a simple method to prepare a cellulose acetate (CA) composite reinforced by nanofibrillated bacterial cellulose (NFBC) directly from an aqueous sol. The key steps of our method were the utilization of a water/organic mixed solvent to maintain a good dispersion of the NFBC and good dissolution of CA, along with the evaporation of this mixed solvent without significant aggregation of the NFBC. This simple technique improved the dispersibility of the NFBC in the composite film and significantly enhanced its mechanical strength.