Synthesis and Characterization of Nanocomposite Based on Waste Polystyrene and Cellulose Nanowhiskers

Abstract

A superabsorbent   nanocomposite composed of waste polystyrene chitosan acrylic and cellulose nanowhiskers(CNWs) were synthesized and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM).The effect of major factors  on water absorbency were investigated to obtain optimum conditions with high swelling capacity.It was found that the incorporation of CNWs improved the swelling capacity as well as improved the mechanical properties.The composite showed responsive behavior in relation to pH and salt solution which make these smart materials suitable for several technological applications. Finally the use of waste polystyrene provided a new method for converting waste resources into variable products.

Keyword: waste polystyrene, cellulose nanowhiskers, chitosan, superabsorbent, hydrogel.