A team of scientists from the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has pioneered a groundbreaking bio-based polyester nanocomposite, as detailed in the latest issue of Nano-Micro Letters.
This innovative material leverages renewable bio-based resources to offer a promising alternative to traditional petrochemical plastics, addressing global energy challenges and environmental pollution.
One of the critical advancements lies in the molecular design. By utilizing two-dimensional nanosheets to encapsulate one-dimensional carbon nanotube fibers, the researchers achieved exceptional dispersion and structural stability. This hetero-structured nanotube fiber acts as a catalyst, nucleator, and interface enhancer for polyesters.
The resulting nanocomposite boasts impressive mechanical strength, stiffness, and toughness, surpassing many commercial bio-based and conventional plastics. Additionally, it offers superior resistance to ultraviolet light and solvents, and enhanced gas barrier properties against oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water.
Remarkably, the nanocomposite maintains 90% of its strength even after five recycling cycles, highlighting its outstanding reprocessability. These attributes make it a viable and sustainable substitute for petroleum-based plastics in packaging and engineering applications, significantly contributing to carbon neutrality goals.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
