Nanotechnology

Sustainable hydrophobic cellulose shows potential to replace petroleum-related products

Schematic diagram of a hybrid network based on CNF and DFNKF. Residues utilized for functionalization and interaction with CNFs are highlighted. The halogenated derivatives DF(1)NKF and DF(F5)NKF were obtained by replacing Phe at position 2 with the corresponding halogenated amino acid. Credit: Journal of Materials Chemistry B (2024). DOI: 10.1039/D4TB01359J

Recent research aims to exploit the mechanical properties and water resistance of cellulose nanofibers to create hydrophobic papers, producing sustainable high-performance materials suitable for packaging and biomedical devices. This involved a supramolecular approach, combining short chains of proteins (peptide sequences) that do not chemically modify cellulose nanofibers. Sustainable hydrophobic paper may one day replace petroleum-based products.

The study, titled “Self-assembly of nanocellulose short peptides to improve mechanical strength and barrier performance,” was published on the cover of the Journal of Materials Chemistry B. He studied Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering at Politecnico di Milano and collaborates with Aalto University, the VTT Technical Research Center in Finland and the SCITEC Institute of the CNR.

Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) are natural fibers derived from cellulose, a renewable and biodegradable source, and are well known for their strength and versatility. In this study, researchers from the Supra Bionano Lab at the Giulio Natta Department of Politecnico di Milano have discovered that by not chemically modifying cellulose nanofibers, but instead by adding small proteins known as peptides, We have shown how it is possible to significantly improve the properties of nanofibers.

“Our supramolecular approach involved the addition of small peptide sequences that bind to the nanofibers, improving their mechanical performance and water resistance,” said Elisa, co-author of the study.・Mr. Marelli explained the methodology. “The results of the study showed that even minimal peptides (less than 0.1%) can significantly improve the mechanical properties of the resulting hybrid materials and increase their resistance to stress.”

Finally, the researchers evaluated the impact of adding fluorine atoms to the peptide sequence. This made it possible to create a structured hydrophobic film on the material, providing even greater water resistance while maintaining biocompatibility and sustainable properties.

“This advancement creates biomaterials that can compete with petroleum-based materials in terms of performance and achieve the same quality and efficiency while reducing environmental impact,” said Pierangelo Metrangolo, co-author of the study. “It opens up new opportunities to do so.” This material is highly suitable for sustainable packaging where moisture resistance is important, and its biocompatibility also makes it highly suitable for use in biomedical devices. ”

Further information: Alessandro Marchetti et al, Nanocellulose short peptide self-assembly to improve mechanical strength and barrier performance, Journal of Materials Chemistry B (2024). DOI: 10.1039/D4TB01359J

Provided by Politecnico di Milano

Citation: Sustainable hydrophobic cellulose shows potential to replace petroleum-related products (November 5, 2024) https://phys.org/news/2024-11-sustainable-hydophobic-cellulose-potential- Retrieved November 5, 2024 from petroleum.html

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