Microfibrillated cellulose film with enhanced mechanical and water-resistant properties by glycerol and hot-pressing treatment

In this study, the effects of glycerol and hot-pressing treatment were investigated to improve the water-resistance and mechanical properties of microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) films. Glycerol is commonly used to remedy the brittleness of MFC films; however, it substantially reduces the mechanical strength and water resistance of these films. A hot-pressing treatment is a simple and effective way to enhance these degraded properties. A combination of a glycerol additive and hot-pressing treatment was considered an economical and efficient approach to improve the performance of MFC films. The wet strength of a glycerol-plasticized, hot-pressed MFC film prepared using a glycerol solution with a concentration of 2.5% (v/v) (H-MFC/2.5%G) was almost thirteen times higher than that of an unmodified MFC film. In addition, the elongation and tensile strength of H-MFC/2.5%G were found to be 85% and 37% higher than those of the unmodified MFC film, respectively.

Automated summary

The study showed that adding glycerol and applying a hot-pressing treatment can effectively enhance the water-resistance and mechanical properties of microfibrillated cellulose films. Combining glycerol with hot-pressing treatment is an economical and efficient approach to improving the performance of MFC films, significantly increasing wet strength and mechanical properties.