New plant-derived composite is tough as bone and hard as aluminum

Date:February 10, 2022

Country: United States

Application

• The cellulose nanocrystal composite material has potential applications in creating stronger dental implants

Description

A team of researchers at MIT has successfully engineered a composite material composed of up to 90% cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), derived from wood pulp, and a small amount of synthetic polymer. This innovative material exhibits exceptional strength, toughness, and hardness, surpassing that of some types of bone and aluminum alloys. By harnessing the remarkable properties of CNCs, the researchers aim to create sustainable, naturally-derived materials that can replace petroleum-based plastics, paving the way for a new generation of eco-friendly products.

Pathway Description:

The team mixed a solution of synthetic polymer with commercially available CNC powder, then used an ultrasonic probe to break up any clumps of cellulose in the gel. They fed some of the gel through a 3-D printer and poured the rest into a mold to be cast. They then let the printed samples dry.