Evaluation of the reinforcing capabilities of cellulose filaments in elastomeric matrices

Performance BioFilaments Inc. (PBI) is focused on the development of commercial applications for cellulose filaments (CF), one of the world’s most exciting and abundant biomaterials. Cellulose filaments have unique performance-enhancing properties with significant potential to improve a wide array of consumer and industrial products. Derived from wood fibre – a renewable natural resource – cellulose filaments optimize the strength, stability, flexibility, and longevity of a variety of materials. One of the potential applications for cellulose filaments is to use them as reinforcing agents in polymeric matrices. In partnership with PBI, the proposed research aims to evaluate the best incorporation strategy for cellulose filaments as a suitable reinforcing additive in elastomeric matrices such as styrene-butadiene and natural rubbers, used for transportation applications, and to evaluate potential additives to improve loss of elongation. Gaining such insights will enable PBI to develop practical solutions to improve the elongation behavior of cellulose filled rubbers.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ehsan Behzadfar

Student:

Partner:

Performance BioFilaments

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

Lakehead University; Toronto Metropolitan University

Program: