Composite Films Based on Nanocellulose and Nanoclay Minerals as High Strength Materials with Gas Barrier Capabilities: Key Points and Challenges

• Main Authors: José António Ferreira Gamelas, Eduardo Ferraz
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: North Carolina State University 2015-08-01
• Series: BioResources
• Subjects: Nanofibrillated cellulose; Flexible electronics; Planar and fibrous minerals; Composite films; Phyllosilicates; Barrier properties; Mechanical strength; Food packaging
• Online Access: http://ojs.cnr.ncsu.edu/index.php/BioRes/article/view/BioRes_10_4_6310_Gamelas_Editorial_Composite_Films_Nanocellulose_Nanoclay

Composites of nanocellulose with layered silicates have recently emerged as a new type of composite materials offering superior strength, as well as thermal and gas barrier properties. These organic-inorganic hybrid composites with a nacre-like structure can be obtained from renewable resources and are environmentally friendly. They can potentially be presented as a serious alternative in the near future to several polymers or other polymer-inorganic composites, for applications in food packaging or electronic devices. The discussion here will be directed to: what are the new opportunities and challenges that arise for these materials aiming at their competition with well-established materials in the market.