A Hydrophobic Sisal Cellulose Microcrystal Film for Fire Alarm Sensors

At present, environmentally friendly biobased flexible films are of particular interest as next-generation fireproof packaging and sensor materials. To reduce the moisture uptake and fire risks induced by hygroscopic and flammable biobased films, we report a simple and green approach to develop a hydrophobic, flame-retardant composite film with synergetic benefit from soy protein isolate (SPI), sisal cellulose microcrystals (MSF-g-COOH), graphene nanosheets (GN), and citric acid (CA). Compared with SPI/MSF-g-COOH composite films, the as-prepared SPI/MSF-g-COOH/CA/GN composite films have significantly improved water resistance and can maintain excellent physical structure and good electrical conductivity in an ethanol flame. This work opens a pathway for the development of novel fire-retardant fire alarm biosensors.

Automated summary

A simple and green approach has been reported for the development of a hydrophobic, flame-retardant composite film using soy protein isolate, sisal cellulose microcrystals, graphene nanosheets, and citric acid with synergetic benefit. Compared to other composite films, the newly developed film shows significantly improved water resistance and can maintain excellent physical structure and good electrical conductivity in an ethanol flame. This work paves the way for novel fire-retardant fire alarm biosensors.