Review of nanocellulose polymer composite characteristics and challenges

Abstract

The nanosize cellulose has emerged in the last two decades as an efficient strategy to improve the structural and functional properties of polymer composite. This review focuses to explore the unique mechanical–thermal properties of cellulose-based nanocomposites particularly on the various reinforcing mechanisms of nanocellulose. The promising reinforcing capabilities of nanocellulose mainly lie in their intrinsic chemical natures, aspect ratio, and degree of crystallinity. In this article, the potential factors deteriorating the aspect ratio and crystallinity have been systematically reviewed. Some relevant suggestions/solutions were also widely exploited toward tailoring the generating problems.