Thermoplastic Starch Nanocomposites Reinforced with Cellulose Nanocrystal Suspensions Containing Residual Salt from Neutralization

Sulfuric acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of cellulose commonly isolates nanocrystals (CNCs). Neutralizing the reactant solution with sodium hydroxide facilitates efficient downstream processing, but residual salt remains in product. This study examines reinforcing effects CNCs from suspensions that contain on mechanical properties thermoplastic starch nanocomposites. By films up to 5 wt% CNCs, stiffness and strength are improved by 118% 79%, respectively, indicating a good dispersion matrix. Compared nanocomposites incorporating salt-free remaining has no significant impact material's performance. The results indicate great potential containing as biobased, low-cost nanofiller hydrophilic polymer matrices.