Nanocellulose
(NC)-based hybrid coatings and films containing CeO2 and
SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) to impart UV screening
and hardness properties, respectively, were prepared by solvent casting.
The NC film-forming component (75 wt % of the overall solids) was
composed entirely of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) or of CNCs combined
with cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs). Zeta potential measurements indicated
that the four NP types (CNC, CNF, CeO2, and SiO2) were stably dispersed in water and negatively charged at pH values
between 6 and 9. The combination of NPs within this pH range ensured
uniform formulations and homogeneous coatings and films, which blocked
UV light, the extent of which depended on film thickness and CeO2 NP content, while maintaining good transparency in the visible
spectrum (∼80%). The addition of a low amount of CNFs (1%)
reduced the film hardness, but this effect was compensated by the
addition of SiO2 NPs. Chiral nematic self-assembly was
observed in the mixed NC film; however, this ordering was disrupted
by the addition of the oxide NPs. The roughness of the hybrid coatings
was reduced by the inclusion of oxide NPs into the NC matrix perhaps
because the spherical oxide NPs were able to pack into the spaces
between cellulose fibrils. We envision these hybrid coatings and films
in barrier applications, photovoltaics, cosmetic formulations, such
as sunscreens, and for the care and maintenance of wood and glass
surfaces, or other surfaces that require a smooth, hard, and transparent
finish and protection from UV damage.