Biocompatible and biodegradable super-toughness regenerated cellulose via water molecule-assisted molding

Most of the commonly used plastics are derived from petrochemicals and produce severe environmental problems. The development of cost-effective bio-based and biodegradable materials with excellent mechanical properties, high thermal and chemical stability, excellent biocompatibility, good processability, and ability to be reshaped remains a challenge. Herein, we report a double cross-linking strategy, combining plane hot-pressing and water molecule-assisted molding processes, to fabricate 3D structured double-cross-linked regenerated cellulose (DCRC). The incorporation of chemical and physical crosslinking domains and the pressure-induced orientation distribution remarkably improved the toughness of the DCRCs. Moreover, the reversible hydrogen bond interaction between cellulose chains could be simply regulated by water molecule, making the DCRCs capable of three-dimensional mouldability. The novel strategy used in this study will be helpful in preparing regenerated cellulose materials with excellent mechanical properties, good moldability and excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability as alternatives to petrochemical plastics for the development of sustainable materials.

Automated summary

The study developed a double cross-linking strategy to fabricate 3D structured regenerated cellulose with improved toughness and moldability. Water molecules can regulate the hydrogen bond interaction between cellulose chains, enabling the material to have three-dimensional moldability.