Nanocomposite biomaterials of nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) and polylactic acid (PLA)
US8829110B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 26, 2011 |
| Grant date | Sep 9, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 14, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC08L2205/14
- WIPO fieldMacromolecular chemistry, polymers
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A new approach is conceived for the development of sustainable biomaterials comprising nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) and polylactic acid (PLA) nanocomposites. The invention deals with advancing a method based on in situ ring opening polymerization of L-lactide in the presence of NCC particles to form NCC-PLA supramolecular nanocomposite materials. This material is hydrophobic and compatible with a wide range of synthetic and natural polymers. NCC-PLA nanocomposites have enhanced functionality (e.g. gas barrier), rheological and mechanical performance, as well as dimensional stability (i.e. less hygroexpansivity) relative to PLA. They are made from entirely renewable resources, and are potentially biocompatible as well as recyclable. NCC-PLA supramolecular nanocomposites can be suspended in most organic solvents or dried to form a solid substance. They can be processed using conventional polymer processing techniques to develop 3-dimensional structures, or spun into fibers, yarns or filaments.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.