Synthesis and characterization of cellulose nanofibers (CNF) ramie reinforced cassava starch hybrid composites

This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of CNF obtained from ramie fibers reinforced with nano PCC tapioca starch hybrid composites. CNF-ramie was prepared by using chemical-ultrasonication process, while the nano-composites were made by utilizing a casting solution and glycerol as plasticizers. Physical, mechanical, and thermal properties are characterized using SEM, FIR, XRD, TGA, and the morphology of composite samples have been analyzed through SEM. The results show that the CS/4CNF/6PCC sample has the highest tensile strength and crystallinity index of 12.84 Mpa and 30.76% respectively. The addition of CNF-ramie and PCC in nanocomposites has increased moisture absorption, crystallinity, and thermal stability properties. The SEM micrographs indicate that the CNF-ramie is bound in a matrix and the PCC is weakly bound in the tapioca starch matrix mainly due to the calcium clumps in the matrix. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.