RESEARCH ON MANUFACTURING NANOCOMPOSITE MATERIALS BASED ON EPOXY RESIN REINFORCED WITH BACTERIAL CELLULOSE/MWCNTS

Abstract

This study focuses on fabricating epoxy-based nanocomposite materials reinforced with bacterial cellulose (BC) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes
(MWCNTs). The process of treating BC involves using a 0.3M NaOH solution combined with ultrasonic treatment at 65°C for 90 minutes. Meanwhile, MWCNTs
are processed by dissolution in a concentrated H2SO4 /HNO3 acid mixture with a ratio of 3:1 in 80ml. This process enhances the reactive surface of MWCNTs,
creating ideal conditions for mixing and interaction with BC and epoxy resin during nanocomposite material production. The nanocomposite materials are
fabricated with different combinations of BC and MWCNTs, specifically at ratios of 5/0.25; 5/0.5, and 5/0.75 (by weight relative to epoxy resin). The latest results
from this research indicate that the combination ratio of 5% BC by weight and 0.5% MWCNTs achieves the best performance in both mechanical properties and
flame retardancy of the nanocomposite material. This implies that the combination of BC and MWCNTs provides optimal reinforcement efficiency, while
improving the flame retardant capability of the material, opening up potential applications in various fields, from industries to medical sectors.