A fast method to prepare mechanically strong and water resistant lignocellulosic nanopapers

Abstract This study covers a green method to prepare hybrid lignocellulosic nanopapers by combining wood nanofibres (WNFs) and cellulose nanofibres (CNFs). The WNFs and CNFs behave synergistically to compensate for the drawbacks of each other resulting in enhanced hybrid nanopapers. The draining time of hybrid nanopapers was improved by up to 75% over CNF nanopaper, and the mechanical properties, modulus, strength and elongation, were respectively improved up to 35%, 90% and 180% over WNF nanopaper. Additionally, the water resistance of hybrid nanopapers was considerably improved with a water contact angle of 95°; the neat CNF nanopaper had a contact angle of 52°. The morphology of nanopapers, studied by electron microscopy, indicated that lignin acts as a matrix, which binds the nanofibres together and makes them impervious to external environmental factors, such as high humidity. The reported hybrid nanopapers are 100% bio-based, prepared by a simple and environmentally friendly processing route. Reported hybrid nanopapers can be used in novel applications such as gas barrier membranes and printable electronics.