Silane-modified kombucha-derived cellulose/polyurethane/polylactic acid biocomposites for prospective application as leather alternative

Abstract

This work focuses on the preparation of cellulose-based biocomposites as a kind of potential leather-like alternative. Herein, Kombucha-derived bacterial cellulose (KBC) cultured from black tea, waste and cane sugar was modified with different silanes (dimethyldichlorosilane, hexadecyltrimethoxysilane, vinyltriethoxysilane and 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane) to incorporate hydrophobic property followed by mixing with polyurethane (PU) and polylactic acid (PLA). The improved hydrophobicity of KBC played a vital role in enhancing compatibility, homogenous mixing and providing a stable structure for the final products. The untreated and silane treated KBC/PU/PLA biocomposites were characterized for surface morphology, chemical structure, X-ray diffraction, thermal and mechanical stability as well biodegradation. According to results, the optimized biocomposites contained KBC 13.74% w/w, PU 73.89% w/w, and PLA 12.50% w/w compressed at 155 °C for 5 min. The prepared biocomposites possessed good elasticity, hydrophobic surface and moderate biodegradability. Basically, the fabricated materials urged possible responses for essential requirements of newly developed leather substitutes with prospective application in fashion design industries like textile, footwear, bags, or interior covering products for the automotive industry.