NaClO-oxidized cellulose nanofiber/chitosan composite films with improved water resistance and high mechanical strength.

ABSTRACT: Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) are increasingly recognized as sustainable alternatives to petroleum-derived plastics. However, their intrinsic hydrophilicity results in poor water resistance, which severely restricts applications in humid or aqueous environments. Therefore, improving water durability while maintaining mechanical performance remains a key challenge. In this study, we fabricated water-resistant composite films by combining oxidized CNFs (OCNFs), obtained via a simple sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) oxidation introducing carboxyl groups, with chitosan (CS). The OCNF/CS films exhibited markedly enhanced tensile strength (∼50 MPa vs. ≤20 MPa for pristine OCNF) and retained their integrity in water for 24 h, with a swelling ratio of ∼200% compared to ≥900% for OCNF alone.

SUBMITTER: Horathal Pedige MP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12911662 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature