This experimental research project seeks to develop new high-performance polymer nanocomposites based on cellulose nanofibres from renewable sources. The potential health risks associated with these materials will also be studied.
Background
The incorporation of mechanically robust nanoscale fillers allows one to significantly improve the mechanical properties of polymers. Cellulose nanofibres are particularly attractive for this purpose, due to their outstanding mechanical properties and the abundance and renewable nature of cellulose. Cellulose nanofibres can be isolated from a variety of bio-sources, including wood, cotton and straw. Unfortunately, little is known about the potential health risks associated with these materials. Several nanofibres have recently been demonstrated to cause asbestos-like effects, while others are considered benign. Therefore, before cellulose nanofibres are broadly exploited in new materials, it is imperative to answer the question whether they present any potential health risks.
Aim
This project seeks to lay the scientific foundation for the development of new high-performance nanocomposites from commodity polymers and cellulose nanofibres. These materials are based on two new design approaches and exhibit properties that make them attractive as building materials. Targeted are novel light-weight materials with mechanical properties that approach those of steel and porous nanocomposites, which represent an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional foamed insulation materials. In parallel, a recently established in-vitro cell model of the epithelial airway barrier will be used to assess the potential toxicity of cellulose nanofibres, and to establish the potential risks of the targeted materials over their entire lifecycle.
Significance
The efforts to develop materials will advance the fundamental understanding of the structure-property relationships of these novel nanomaterials. The cell studies will provide the first data regarding the potential health risks associated with cellulose nanofibres and nanocomposites. Since many research groups around the world entertain research and development activities on cellulose-based nanomaterials and their commercialisation is likely, it is expected that the results of this study will impact the field far beyond the materials studied here.
Original title: Cellulose-based nanocomposite building materials: solutions and toxicity
Grant: CHF 449'916.-
Duration: 36 months
Project leader
- Prof. Christoph Weder