Novel nanocomposite concept based on cross-linking of hyperbranched polymers in reactive cellulose nanopaper templates

Cellulosic fibers offer interesting possibilities for good interfacial adhesion due to the high density of hydroxyl groups at the surface. In the present study, the potential of a new nanocomposite concept is investigated, where a porous cellulose nanofiber network is impregnated with a solution of reactive hyperbranched polyester. The polymer is chemically cross-linked to form a solid matrix. The resulting nanocomposite structure is unique. The matrix surrounds a tough nanopaper structure consisting of approximately 20 nm diameter nanofibers with an average interfiber distance of only about 6 nm. The cross-linked polymer matrix shows strongly altered characteristics when it is cross-linked in the confined space within the nanofiber network, including dramatically increased Tg, and this must be due to covalent matrix–nanofiber linkages.