High-Performance Composites Made from Cellulose Nanofibers

摘要

The primary objective of this research was to establish an optimum method for preparing cellulose nanowhiskers (CNW) as reinforcing fillers for polymers. Various methods, including modification using solvents, ultrasound, and supercritical carbon dioxide, have been applied in an attempt to yield CNWs. Products from these treatments have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and optical microscopy. The enhancement in mechanical properties resulting from inclusion of these reinforcements in polymers was discussed in relation to conventional natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites.