Chinese researchers unveil innovative bio-based nanocomposite
Chinese scientists have unveiled an innovative bio-based nanocomposite, showcasing advancements in sustainable materials. This groundbreaking development aims to enhance various applications by utilizing environmentally friendly components. As experts continue to explore the potential uses and benefits of this nanocomposite, it could pave the way for a more sustainable future in material science.
TroibNews 
A team of researchers in China has developed a groundbreaking bio-based polyester nanocomposite that exhibits remarkable overall performance and reprocessability, as detailed in a recent article in the journal Nano-Micro Letters.
Renewable bio-based materials present a promising alternative to conventional plastics, offering environmentally friendly solutions to the ongoing global energy crisis and environmental pollution.
Despite this potential, the overall properties of bio-based materials still fall short when compared to those of petrochemical-based plastics, primarily due to limitations in molecular and microstructure design.
The researchers from the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, employed a unique approach using two-dimensional nanosheets to encapsulate one-dimensional carbon nanotube fibers. This technique resulted in improved dispersion and structural stability.
According to the researchers, this innovative hetero-structured nanotube fiber functions as a catalyst, nucleator, and interface enhancer for polyesters.
Thanks to its multi-scale energy dissipated structure, the newly created nanocomposite demonstrated exceptional mechanical strength, stiffness, and toughness.
In comparison to many commercial bio-based materials and plastics, this new nanocomposite offers enhanced ultraviolet resistance, solvent resistance, and improved gas barrier properties against oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water.
Additionally, the nanocomposite is capable of retaining 90 percent of its strength after undergoing five recycling cycles, showcasing its impressive reprocessability.
This multifunctional bio-based nanocomposite serves as a viable and sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics, particularly in packaging and engineering applications, and represents a significant advancement toward carbon neutrality objectives.
Alejandro Jose Martinez for TROIB News
Renewable bio-based materials present a promising alternative to conventional plastics, offering environmentally friendly solutions to the ongoing global energy crisis and environmental pollution.
Despite this potential, the overall properties of bio-based materials still fall short when compared to those of petrochemical-based plastics, primarily due to limitations in molecular and microstructure design.
The researchers from the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, employed a unique approach using two-dimensional nanosheets to encapsulate one-dimensional carbon nanotube fibers. This technique resulted in improved dispersion and structural stability.
According to the researchers, this innovative hetero-structured nanotube fiber functions as a catalyst, nucleator, and interface enhancer for polyesters.
Thanks to its multi-scale energy dissipated structure, the newly created nanocomposite demonstrated exceptional mechanical strength, stiffness, and toughness.
In comparison to many commercial bio-based materials and plastics, this new nanocomposite offers enhanced ultraviolet resistance, solvent resistance, and improved gas barrier properties against oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water.
Additionally, the nanocomposite is capable of retaining 90 percent of its strength after undergoing five recycling cycles, showcasing its impressive reprocessability.
This multifunctional bio-based nanocomposite serves as a viable and sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics, particularly in packaging and engineering applications, and represents a significant advancement toward carbon neutrality objectives.
Alejandro Jose Martinez for TROIB News
