Technological watch

Mass Production of Recyclable Bioplastics Possible with Cellulose

By Hussain AhmedJan 31 2022Reviewed by Megan Craig, M.Sc.A new publication in the journal ACS Applied Polymer Materials describes a simple and large-scale preparation technique for producing high-performance cellulose bioplastic films made from chemically compatible dual-crosslinked carboxymethylated cellulose fibers (CMFs).



Study: Large-Scale Manufacture of Recyclable Bioplastics from Renewable Cellulosic Biomass Derived from Softwood Kraft Pulp. Image Credit:Marco Lazzarini/Shutterstock.com

The accumulation of synthetic polyester on the planet has posed a danger to the ecology. Because of its advantageous recyclability, optical clarity, and availability of resources, cellulose film has recently become one of the most appealing alternatives to displace petroleum-based polymers.

The typical methodologies for fabricating cellulose films, such as vacuum filtering and solution casting are, however, time-consuming and expensive to industrialize. Furthermore, these films still have low water resistance and mechanical properties in high humidity, making them unsuitable for real-world applications.

Cellulose: An Important Bio-PlasticPlastics, which are made up of numerous petroleum compounds, play an essential part in human existence and industry. However, owing to their non-biodegradability and complicated sewage disposal, ever-increasing pollutants have been collecting on our planet and progressively infiltrating the food supply, creating serious health and environmental consequences.

Researchers have suggested the notion of "bioplastics" to completely replace petrochemical-based polymers to overcome such a dilemma.

Bioplastics derived from biomass materials can decrease dependency on gasoline, increase energy stability, and decrease carbon dioxide and plastic particulate pollutants.

In addition, cellulose, the most common biomass generated from trees and plants on the planet, has been broadly applied to manufacture traditional writing and paper products, as well as food and commodities wrappings.

Related Stories

Publication date: 31/01/2022

AZO NANO

      

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 870292.