Biocomposites of synthetic polymer modified microcrystalline jute cellulose particles and their hemolytic behavior

Natural jute fiber can be used as a good source of biocomposite for application in biomedical field. Here microcrystalline jute cellulose (MCJC) particles were first prepared by the hydrolysis of bleached jute pulp with H2SO4 and the effect of acid strength was examined. A maximum crystallinity index of 89% was found for MCJC particles prepared by hydrolysis with 30% H2SO4. The surface of MCJC particles possessing the highest crystallinity index was then modified with various synthetic polymers like poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA), poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA), and poly(lauryl methacrylate-methyl methacrylate) P(LMA-MMA) via in situ seeded free radical polymerization. The values of crystallinity index decreased to 74, 66 and 76% in MCJC/PHEMA, MCJC/PGMA and MCJC/P(LMA-MMA) composite particles respectively. The adsorption magnitudes of biomolecules on composites were relatively high compared to those on MCJC particles. Lower hemolytic activities (< 1.0%) confirmed the biocompatible nature of composite particles, a requisite property for any composite desired for efficient biorelated applications. Graphic abstract