Nano-Metal Organic Framework for Enhanced Mechanical, Flame Retardant and Ultraviolet-Blue Light Shielding Properties of Transparent Cellulose-Based Bioplastics

Abstract

From the perspective of sustainable development and practical applications, there has been a great need for the design of multifunctional transparent cellulose-based composite films. We herein propose a novel concept of improving the mechanical, fire-resistant and ultraviolet (UV)-blue light shielding properties of cellulose-based composite bioplastic films though in situ embedding nano-metal organic framework (MIL-125(Ti)-NH2) into regenerated cellulose gel. Regenerated cellulose hydrogel (CH) with a porous structure acts as a nanoreactor and stabilizer to facilitate the growth and anchorage of MIL-125(Ti)-NH2 nanoparticles (MNPs). Subsequently, hot-pressing induces the formation of transparent MIL-125(Ti)-NH2@cellulose bioplastics (MNP@CBPs). As expected, the MNP@CBPs exhibit exceptional UV-blue light shielding capability, while retaining satisfactory optical transmittance. Meanwhile, with the incorporation of MNPs, the mechanical strength of MNP@CBPs is increased by 6.5∼25.9%. In addition, MNPs enhance the flame retardant effect of the MNP@CBPs. The limited oxygen index (LOI) of the MNP@CBPs increased from 21.95 to 27.01%. The hot-pressing process improves the resistance of the MNP@CBPs to the penetration of water/non-aqueous liquids. This simple strategy would direct sustainable multifunctional MNP@CBPs toward diversified applications: food containers or packaging materials that can reduce or eliminate food spoilage, screen protectors for blocking harmful light, and promising candidates for protective plastic products, among others.

Metal–organic frameworks for active food packaging. A review

“…It was observed that the mechanical performance, including tensile strength and elongation at break of the film, improved by 6.5 ~ 25.9%, and a slight increment in contact angle from 60.6° and 60.9° was also recorded. Hence, it has been concluded that the incorporation of nano-metal–organic frameworks in cellulose film can be used for the development of multifunctional film, which has application in the packaging of food (Sun et al 2021 ).…”

UV protection properties of workwear fabric coated with metal-organic frameworks

“…Also, due to their small size, controlled porosity, large surface area, and meanwhile, organic linking ligands or metal ions from the framework can create UV inhibitory and blocking properties. 31 Based on what was stated in the previous studies, the metal part in the MOF has a more prominent role for absorbing UV.…”

Valorization of Aquatic Weed and Agricultural Residues for Innovative Biopolymer Production and Their Biodegradation

“…Previously, Rodion Kopitzky [6] studied cost effective bio-based plastic production by blending polylactic acid-polybutyrene with succinate-sugar beet pulp particles. In addition, cellulose-based composite material production was also reported by Sun et al [7]. They used cellulose powder, which was obtained from filter paper pulp, as raw material for cellulose hydrogel production.…”