Synthesis and characterization of cellulose whiskers/polymer nanocomposite dispersion by mini-emulsion polymerization

Stable film-forming nanocomposite particles with diameters ranging from 120 to 300 nm, based on polybutylmethacrylate (PBMA) and cellulose whiskers in water dispersions, were successfully synthesized in one step through mini-emulsion polymerization. The nanocomposite dispersion with a solid content of 25 wt.% and up to 5 wt.% of nanofiller loading was prepared by in situ polymerization, in the presence of the whiskers using dodecylpyridinium chloride (DPC), as a cationic surfactant, and 2,2-azobis(isobutyronitrile) (AIBN), as initiator. The electrostatic interaction between the positively charged droplets and negatively charged whiskers ensured the anchoring of the nanofiller around the polymer particles. The ensuing dispersions were characterized by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), ζ-Potential Measurements, and Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM). After the film formation process, the nanocomposite film exhibits a high transparency, denoting the good dispersion of the whiskers throughout the matrix.

An simple approach to a one-step synthesis of a stable aqueous nanocomposite dispersions based on cellulose whiskers and on polybutylmethacrylate via mini-emulsion polymerization is successfully accomplished. Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (68 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► A one-step synthesis of stable aqueous film-forming stable nanocomposite dispersions.
► A cationic surfactant was used ensure the binding of whiskers on the polymer particles.
► The nanocomposite dispersion leads to a transparent film after coalescence.