Recent developments of all-cellulose composites from cellulose fibers – concepts, properties, and applications

Single polymer composites have been under development for some time, and these composites are made of a single polymer type, which is processed so that a composite with a distinct reinforcement is embedded in a matrix, made from the same polymer. Compared to conventional composites, which are composed of two different materials (for example glass fibre reinforcement and a thermoset resin), single polymer composites can be recycled after end-of life in an easier way, as no physical separation of the composite constituents are needed. 

All-cellulose composites (ACCs) have shown their potential for this purpose. By first selectively dissolving a cellulose material (preferably as a fabric) and then regenerating the cellulose it is possible to form a single polymer composite. The ACC is composed of a cellulose reinforcement, which is embedded in a cellulose matrix. By doing the processing according to a controlled procedure, it is possible to obtain a composite with tailored structure and aligned cellulose fibres. 

The presentation will review our previous and recent research aiming at demonstrating the potential for all-cellulose composites as a structural composite material. The process has involved both ionic liquids and cold NaOH-urea, and laminates of various thickness and dimensions have been made and te achieved properties have been analyzed. In our research we have used both recycled end-of life textiles (cotton denim), as well as non-woven virgin cellulose fabrics.