Article
Polymer Science
Pavel G. G. Shelenkov, Petr V. V. Pantyukhov, Matheus Poletto, Anatoly A. A. Popov
Summary: Highly filled biocomposites are used as masterbatches added to traditional polymers to enhance biodegradability. This study focused on biocomposites made with different trademarks of EVA and natural fillers. The EVA trademarks varied in melt flow index and vinyl acetate content. The influence of vinyl acetate content and melt flow index on the properties of highly filled biocomposites was evaluated. One EVA trademark with high molecular weight and high VA content was chosen for creating optimal highly filled composites with natural fillers.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Yi Li, Shuangna Yao, Changyu Han, Yancun Yu, Liguang Xiao
Summary: Three polymers P34HB, PLA, and PVAc were melt compounded to form a ternary blend with balanced properties, with PVAc showing full miscibility with PLA and P34HB. PVAc selectively dispersed in the PLA phase at low content and gradually diffused into the P34HB phase with increasing concentration. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a phase-separated morphology in all blends, with dispersed phase diameters increasing with PVAc concentration.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Qi Liu, Dong Feng, Wenbo Zhao, Delong Xie, Yi Mei
Summary: A compounding method based on combining long-chain phosphaphenanthrene (DPP) flame retardant and two-dimensional (2D) black phosphorene (BP) is used to achieve molecule-scale dispersion of a SiP flame retardant in poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (EVA) matrix. The results show that this method can effectively improve the flame retardant properties and thermal stability of EVA.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Masoud Dadras Chomachayi, Pierre Blanchet, Atif Hussain
Summary: A bio-based membrane for building envelope applications was developed using poly(lactic acid) and cellulose microfibers. The addition of modified CMFs and a compatibilizer improved the water vapor permeability, thermal stability, and dispersion of the materials.
Article
Thermodynamics
Giselly M. G. Farias, Pankaj Agrawal, Ruth B. L. Hanken, Jeane P. de Araujo, Akidauana D. B. de Oliveira, Tomas J. A. de Melo
Summary: The concentration of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and the vinyl acetate (VA) content in EVA have significant effects on the properties of bio-based high-density polyethylene (BioPE)/EVA blends. Increasing EVA concentration decreases the crystallinity of BioPE, while blends with higher VA content exhibit higher impact strength.
JOURNAL OF THERMAL ANALYSIS AND CALORIMETRY
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Pardis Lohrasbi, Jafar Khademzadeh Yeganeh
Summary: This research successfully prepared a super toughened poly(lactic acid)/poly(ethylene vinyl acetate) blend by using simultaneous dynamic vulcanization and addition of hydrophobic silica nanoparticles, leading to improved tensile toughness and impact strength through enhanced compatibilization of the blend phases.
POLYMERS FOR ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Bingyan Li, Xuhong Yang
Summary: A sandwich-structured fiber nonwoven composite for air filtration was developed, which showed improved efficiency and performance in air filtration.
Article
Polymer Science
Sung-Seen Choi, Yu Yeon Chung
Summary: The influence of manufacturing processes on the crystalline properties of poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (EVA) was investigated, revealing that stearic acid, TAC, and JTR can improve the crystallinity of EVA compounds; the milling process can accelerate the crystal formation of EVA chains; EVA foam samples have higher crystallinity, possibly due to compression of EVA chains during blowing.
POLYMERS FOR ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Eduardo da Silva Barbosa Ferreira, Emanuel Pereira do Nascimento, Carlos Bruno Barreto Luna, Edson Antonio dos Santos Filho, Renate Maria Ramos Wellen, Edcleide Maria Araujo
Summary: Poly(lactic acid) is gaining popularity in academia and industry due to its biopolymer and biodegradable nature. However, its high fragility has led to efforts to find alternatives to improve this drawback.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Lia Kim, Sang A. Kim, Youn-Joo An
Summary: This study found that microfibers released from cigarette butts can adversely affect the exoskeletal structure of aquatic organisms, specifically damaging the gills and causing rapid ecdysis in whiteleg shrimp. These effects reduce the environmental adaptation capacity of crustaceans.
MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Takeyoshi Kimura, Tomoki Takeuchi, Panitha Phulkerd, Pornchanok Pichaipanich, Daisuke Kugimoto, Shingo Kouda, Takumitsu Kida, Masayuki Yamaguchi
Summary: The effect of cellulose acetate propionate (CAP) addition on the rheological properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) was studied. It was found that a small amount of CAP dissolved in PLA and greatly increased the oscillatory shear moduli in the low-frequency region. Neat CAP also exhibited strain hardening in transient elongational viscosity, and the CAP chains dissolved in PLA provided strain hardening in elongational viscosity for the blends.
JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Seongwoo Gwon, Myoungsu Shin
Summary: The rheological properties of cement pastes prepared with kenaf-plant cellulose micro fibers for internal curing were investigated, showing that different lengths and mass fractions of CMFs have varying effects on cement performance, but the mixtures exhibited similar plastic viscosities.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY-JMR&T
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yi Li, Hongda Cheng, Changyu Han, Yancun Yu, Hechang Shi, Ye Zhang, Shilong Yao
Summary: Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) with high molecular weight were melt compounded to prepare blends with improved mechanical and rheological properties. The addition of PVAc improved the viscoelasticity of PLA melt and suppressed cold crystallization. PVAc also reduced the crystallization rate without changing the crystallization mechanism. The PLA/PVAc blends showed increased modulus, yield strength, and elongation at break compared to neat PLA. The blends prepared by melt blending process exhibited improved stiffness, strength, ductility, and melt strength, meeting the performance and process requirements of PLA in various fields.
COLLOID AND POLYMER SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Jieke Ye, Chen Qian, Yubing Dong, Yaofeng Zhu, Yaqin Fu
Summary: In this study, organic solvent-induced shape memory poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (EVA) monoliths with tunable porous structures and satisfactory shape memory properties are developed. These monoliths effectively separate oil and water and can expand when absorbing oil, providing new possibilities for the design of smart porous materials and structures.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Ana P. M. Nozaki, Liliane M. F. Lona
Summary: Nanocellulose is a promising reinforcement agent in nanocomposites due to its abundance, renewability, and biocompatibility. This study compared the effects of adding unmodified CNC and MFC on PVAc composites, revealing differences in mechanical properties despite similar impacts on thermal and barrier properties.
Article
Polymer Science
Valentina Salaris, Adrian Leones, Daniel Lopez, Jose Maria Kenny, Laura Peponi
Summary: This review emphasizes the importance of the synergic effects between electrospun polymeric fibers and shape-memory properties and suggests further exploration in both scientific and industrial aspects. Promising results have been obtained in the biomedical field, as well as in sensors and actuators, and electronics.
Article
Polymer Science
Valentina Salaris, Adrian Leones, Daniel Lopez, Jose Maria Kenny, Laura Peponi
Summary: This work investigates the effects of adding MgO and Mg(OH)2 nanoparticles on the morphology, thermal properties, and mechanical properties of poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL)-based electrospun fiber mats. The study finds that adding nanoparticles increases the fiber diameter and reduces the onset degradation temperature and maximum degradation temperature. Furthermore, the addition of nanoparticles decreases the crystallinity of the reinforced fibers.
MACROMOLECULAR CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Andrea Lombardi, Andrea Fochetti, Pamela Vignolini, Margherita Campo, Alessandra Durazzo, Massimo Lucarini, Debora Puglia, Francesca Luzi, Marco Papalini, Monia Renzi, Andrea Cavallo, Roberta Bernini
Summary: This review article summarizes the current research status of the activation technology of poly (lactic acid) (PLA)-based materials in food and biomedical applications using natural compounds and extracts from plant sources. It discusses the synthesis and properties of PLA, as well as the chemical properties and unconventional extraction technologies of active ingredients (AIs) used for PLA activation. The innovative techniques for incorporating AIs into PLA, characterization of the novel materials, and their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties are also discussed. The study highlights the need for further joint research between academia and industry, following green chemistry principles and circular economy strategies.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Valentina Salaris, Daniel Lopez, Jose Maria Kenny, Laura Peponi
Summary: The in vitro degradation behavior of PCL-based electrospun nanofibers in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) and simulated body fluid (SBF) was studied, along with the influence of Mg-based nanoparticles on the degradation process and bioactivity. The presence of nanoparticles was found to accelerate the degradation of the nanofibers, resulting in a reduction in diameter and an increase in crystallinity. Furthermore, the bioactivity of the nanofibers was confirmed through the formation of crystals on the surface, indicating the presence of apatites.
Review
Polymer Science
Debora Puglia, Francesca Luzi, Luigi Torre
Summary: This article summarizes the methods of utilizing lignin from lignocellulosic wastes and its applications in composite and nanocomposite materials. It introduces the need for alternative green solutions to petroleum-based plastics and presents the synthesis methods for bio-based and/or biodegradable thermoplastic and thermosetting nanocomposites, along with the use of lignin nanoparticles in all green polymeric matrices.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Laura Peponi, Karla A. Barrera-Rivera, Jose M. Kenny, Angel Marcos-Fernandez, Antonio Martinez-Richa, Daniel Lopez
Summary: In this study, the chemical modification of cellulose nanocrystals (NCs) was carried out to covalently functionalize the external surface of NCs with poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) and poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL) using an enzyme as a catalyst. Various analytical techniques were used to confirm the success of the grafting reactions and to study the crystalline nature of the functionalized polymeric chains.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Catia Clementi, Franco Dominici, Francesca Luzi, Debora Puglia, Loredana Latterini
Summary: In this study, aqueous extracts of logwood are used as a natural source of color to produce an organic purple pigment for effective coloration of different biopolymers. The exceptional color efficiency of the pigment is demonstrated by the low amount required for saturation. The pigment does not significantly affect the mechanical and thermal properties of the biopolymer matrix.
ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Agronomy
Paolo Benincasa, Franco Dominici, Francesca Luzi, Catia Governatori, Laura Gazza, Elena Galassi, Giacomo Tosti, Debora Puglia
Summary: Recent research has examined the plasticization of wheat flour for non-food applications. The study investigated the effects of nitrogen fertilization treatments on the performance of thermoplastic films made from two bread wheat cultivars. The results showed that the mechanical properties of the films were influenced by the nitrogen treatment methods.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Francesca Luzi, Ainhoa Angulo Dehesa, Emiliano Laudadio, Debora Puglia, Erlantz Lizundia, Pierluigi Stipa, Ilaria Armentano, Luigi Torre
Summary: Electrically conducting biobased materials have great potential for high-technological applications such as sensors, soft electronics, and active packaging. In this study, ternary nanohybrid films composed of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and silver oxide (Ag2O) nanoparticles are developed and characterized. The electrical and thermal properties of the films are analyzed, and the effects of water content on the interactions between nanoscale systems are investigated using computational simulations.
JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY C
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Characterization & Testing
J. Ivorra-Martinez, J. Gomez-Caturla, N. Montanes, L. Quiles-Carrillo, F. Dominici, D. Puglia, L. Torre
Summary: This study investigated the effect of a reactive extrusion (REX) process on PLA-based formulations plasticized with DBI. REX with the addition of organic peroxides improved the interaction between DBI and PLA, resulting in improved mechanical and thermal properties of the formulations. The use of REX also reduced plasticizer migration and improved thermal stability.
Article
Polymer Science
Carmen Laura Perez Gutierrez, Francesco Cottone, Cinzia Pagano, Alessandro Di Michele, Debora Puglia, Francesca Luzi, Franco Dominici, Rossella Sinisi, Maurizio Ricci, Cesar Antonio Viseras Iborra, Luana Perioli
Summary: The aim of this study was to develop sustainable patches for wound application using 3D printing technology and the biopolymer starch. The composition of the starch gel and the printing parameters were optimized to improve the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the patches. The results suggest the possibility of low-cost production of patches for wound treatment using additive manufacturing technology.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Carmen Laura Perez Gutierrez, Alessandro Di Michele, Cinzia Pagano, Debora Puglia, Francesca Luzi, Tommaso Beccari, Maria Rachele Ceccarini, Sara Primavilla, Andrea Valiani, Camilla Vicino, Maurizio Ricci, Cesar Antonio Viseras Iborra, Luana Perioli
Summary: Hazelnut shells, the waste product of hazelnut processing, contain active molecules that have potential pharmaceutical applications. A hydrosoluble extract was prepared and incorporated into patches made from chitosan and green clay composites. In vitro studies demonstrated that the extract stimulated keratinocyte growth and inhibited the growth of S.aureus, making it a suitable product for wound healing.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Ciro Tolisano, Francesca Luzi, Luca Regni, Primo Proietti, Debora Puglia, Giovanni Gigliotti, Alessandro Di Michele, Dario Priolo, Daniele Del Buono
Summary: This study focused on the valorization of pomace, a waste of olive pressing, to obtain lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) that can be applied to improve the growth and physiological traits of maize plants. The results showed that the treatment with an ionic liquid containing different concentrations of water allowed for the production of high-quality LNPs. This opens up new possibilities for the sustainable and biobased utilization of olive oil pomace.
ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Franco Dominici, Debora Puglia, Francesca Luzi, Catia Governatori, Giacomo Tosti, Paolo Benincasa
Summary: The mechanical performance of thermoplastic bulk samples obtained from different types of wheat flours was evaluated. Bran presence increased the strength and reduced the elongation at break of the thermoplastics. The grinding level also had an effect on the properties, with finer grinding resulting in higher strength and lower elongation. The presence of bran affected the exposure of starch granules to the plasticizer.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Weijun Yang, Hui Ding, Debora Puglia, Jose M. Kenny, Tianxi Liu, Jiaqi Guo, Qingwen Wang, Rongxian Ou, Pengwu Xu, Piming Ma, Pieter Jan Lemstra
Summary: This paper discusses the development of biopolymers based on renewable biomass, with a focus on lignin-derived phenol monomers. Lignin is the second most abundant organic biopolymer after cellulose, and it can be widely found in plants. The use of lignin derivatives allows for the synthesis of various thermosets and thermoplastics, which have applications in flame-retarded materials, degradable and reprocessable materials, dielectric materials, optoelectronic materials, and smart responsive materials.
Article
Polymer Science
Tetsu Sato, Mariko Takahashi, Takeshi Saito, Masahito Toyonaga, Itsuo Tanuma, Rie Yamada, Satoru Hosoda
Summary: An automatic evaluation system for photooxidation has been developed and successfully applied to assess the photo-OIT of LDPE samples containing photooxidation stabilizers. The system allows independent setting of various measurement conditions and provides detailed information on the photooxidation process.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2024)
Article
Polymer Science
Zongzheng Zuo, Shuxue Zhou
Summary: In this study, three fluoroalkyl trimethoxysilane (FATMS) additives with different chain lengths were incorporated into a two-component polyurethane clearcoat to improve its hydrophobic durability. The coatings modified with FATMS maintained their surface hydrophobicity under various conditions, but quickly lost it when exposed to both UV irradiation and/or high temperature with water. The results suggest that the FATMS route is more suitable for indoor applications at room temperature.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2024)
Article
Polymer Science
Song Li, Feng Zhao, Xueya Wang, Zhihua Liu, Jingze Guo, Yutong Li, Shuangmei Tan, Zhenxiang Xin, Shuai Zhao, Lin Li
Summary: Green flame retardants have garnered attention for their environmental friendliness, but current options fall short in achieving high flame retardancy for flammable polymers and maintaining environmental protection. This study takes a two-pronged approach to address flame retardants and the flame-retardant process. An eco-friendly bio-based synergistic flame retardant (PAU), synthesized using phytic acid (PA) and urea (U), is used to create a flame retardant coating that can be directly applied to any surface shape using polydopamine as an adhesive. The resulting EPS-PAU exhibits excellent flame retardancy, smoke suppression, and light weight while only slightly increasing the density.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2024)
