Supramolecular interactions on nanocrystals (e.g. cellulose) to improve mechanical properties of polymers

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Cellulose is a naturally occurring and extremely common polysaccharide with huge hydrogen bonding and functionalisation potential. The raw source is important with respect to the extracted cellulose structure, morphology, aspect ratio, allomorph, and other properties. Extraction will occur from various sources (such as cocoa pod husk or tunicates) prior to characterisation, analysis, and eventual functionalisation and incorporation into polymer matrices. Functionalisation will be key to ensuring compatibility in polymer systems, as cellulose is inherently hydrophilic. The interactions the functionalisation process imparts will be studied in an effort to improve, tailor, and potentially create stimuli responsive properties. The polymer matrices chosen will endeavour to be sustainable in nature. That being: bio based; renewable (non-petroleum based); biodegradable; environmentally friendly; or a combination of those listed (such as PLA, PCL, or bio(PE)). A personal aim is to broaden and develop the knowledge on a sustainable plastics future, using natural/renewable materials, to replace those used in current applications that are derived from non-renewable sources.