Synergistic effect of cellulose nanofiber and nanoclay as distributed phase in a polypropylene based nanocomposite system

Bich Nam Jung, Hyun Wook Jung, Dongho Kang, Gi Hong Kim, Jin Kie Shim

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Since the plastic-based multilayer films applied to food packaging are not recyclable, it is necessary to develop easily recyclable single materials. Herein, polypropylene (PP)-based cellulose nanofiber (CNF)/nanoclay nanocomposites were prepared by melt-mixing using a fixed CNF content of 1 wt %, while the nanoclay content varied from 1 to 5 wt %. The optimum nanoclay content in the PP matrix was found to be 3 wt % (PCN3), while they exhibited synergistic effects as a nucleating agent. PCN3 exhibited the best mechanical properties, and the tensile and flexural moduli were improved by 51% and 26%, respectively, compared to PP. In addition, the oxygen permeability was reduced by 28%, while maintaining the excellent water vapor permeability of PP. The improvement in the mechanical and barrier properties of PP through the production of PP/CNF/nanoclay hybrid nanocomposites suggested their possible application in the field of food packaging.

Original languageEnglish
Article number2399
Pages (from-to)1-15
Number of pages15
JournalPolymers
Volume12
Issue number10
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020 Oct

Keywords

  • Hybrid
  • Nanocomposites
  • Physical properties
  • Polymer-matrix composites (PCM)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Chemistry(all)
  • Polymers and Plastics

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