Cellulose nanofiber reinforced poly(vinyl alcohol) composite film with high visible light transmittance

In this paper, we presented the fabrication and characterization of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) composite film reinforced with high volume of electrospun cellulose nanofibrous mat (CNM). Its visible light transmittance and mechanical properties were examined in relation to fiber content in the composite. Optimal CNM content in the composite was found to be 40 wt% in terms of its overall properties. This composite film exhibited visible light transmittance of 75%, and its mechanical strength and Young’s modulus were increased by 50% and 600%, respectively, as compared to neat PVA film.