Preparation and characterization of transparent advanced smart nanocomposites reinforced by nanofibrillated cellulose/poly(methyl methacrylate)/methyl methacrylate/benzoyl peroxide

Abstract

Transparent smart nanocomposites, which are among the advanced materials, were developed with the synergistic effect of nanofibrillated cellulose (NFCs) as a natural bionanomaterial, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) as a biocompatible microcapsule, methyl methacrylate (MMA) as a monomer, and benzoyl peroxide (BPO) as an initiator and catalyst. Epoxy resin was reinforced with NFC, PMMA, MMA, and BPO. Casting, which appears to be an industrially promising method that allows for cost-effective and high-quantity production, was used for producing transparent advanced nanocomposites. The properties of the nanocomposites, including yield strength, modulus of elasticity, hardness, impact energy, and self-healing capability, were determined. Increases in the yield strength (136.4%), modulus of elasticity (260%), hardness (28.3%), and impact energy (75%) were observed in the transparent smart nanocomposites reinforced with NFC, PMMA, MMA, and BPO, compared to pure epoxy composites. Furthermore, the transparent advanced smart nanocomposites self-healed by about 7% after the notch/scratch defect. It has the potential to be used in a variety of applications, such as interior and structural components for the aerospace and automotive industries, packaging, flexible screens, and lightweight transparent materials.