(534e) Advanced Synthesis and Characterization of Cellulose Nano Crystal (CNC) Loaded Biodegradable Composite Materials.

This study addresses the development of sustainable, biodegradable films from renewable protein sources, addressing plastic pollution and fossil fuel concerns. Protein-based materials are cost-effective and renewable, with potential across food, agriculture, bioscience, and biotechnology sectors. Yet, their application is limited by water sensitivity, processing challenges, and mechanical instability. We aim to enhance these materials' properties by integrating cellulose nanocrystals (CNC). We focus on enhancing the properties of soy protein isolate and recombinant silk nanocomposite films through various CNC surface modification and loadings. The nanostructure of these composites will be analyzed using small angle neutron scattering (SANS) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), while their crystallinity will be assessed with wide angle X-ray scattering (WAXS). These analyses, complemented by chemical and mechanical characterizations, will explore the structure-property relationships within the materials. The goal is to establish a clear link between CNC surface modification and loadings, composite nanostructure, and mechanical performance, paving the way for developing CNC-enhanced bio composites for diverse industrial applications.