Effects of Grafting Structure on 1D One-Component Composites: An Example of Surface-Grafted Cellulose Nanofibers

This investigation explores the relationships between the structure and properties of surface-grafted cellulose nanofiber (CNF)-based one-component composites. Critical parameters, including graft density, graft chain length, and interface structure, were systematically modified. Increasing the graft density and hydrophobic modification of the CNF surface significantly improved the thermal stability. Reducing the graft chain length increased the Tg of the graft chain. The hydrophobic modification of the CNF surface decreased the Tg of the graft chains, while increasing the graft chain length resulted in a reduction in the stiffness. Conversely, decreasing the graft density led to a remarkable enhancement in the toughness and strength of the nanocomposites. The hydrophobically modified nanocomposites exhibited a decrease in modulus and an increase in elasticity. These results highlight the significant role of interfacial interaction between CNF and the grafted polymer, which is equally crucial as the graft density in determining the properties of these composites.