Preparation and properties of bacterial cellulose/graphene oxide composite films using dyeing method

Abstract

In this study, bacterial cellulose (BC) hydrogels were cultured from a kombucha SCOBY starter. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results indicated that the dried BC exhibited an interpenetrating fibrous mat. The BC films harvested for 5, 10, and 15 days were 15–19, 14.4–24, and 30–31 μm thick, respectively. Then, BC/graphene oxide (GO) composite films were prepared via the exhaust dyeing method. GO sheets penetrated the BC matrix, resulting in the formation of a BC/GO composite, as revealed by the SEM analysis results. The mechanical properties of the composite films were investigated. Compared with virgin BC, the tensile strength of the composite films was higher, while the %E at break was lower, resulting in a significant increase in the Young's modulus. The X‐ray diffraction results indicated that an increase in the dyeing time (0.5–2 h) gradually induced cellulose crystalline conformation, which in turn affected the swelling ability, mechanical properties, and electrical properties of the BC/GO composite films. After the reduction of GO to reduced GO (rGO), flexible conductive BC/rGO films were obtained, as confirmed by their resistivity values. Thus, flexible conductive composite films with excellent mechanical properties were successfully fabricated.

Preparation, Characterization, and Biological Features of Cactus Coated Bacterial Cellulose Hydrogels

“…Developing BCC through such approach not only protects the existing strength of BC, but also improves its strength [ 18 ]. Earlier development of BC composites with graphene oxide has depicted an increase in mechanical strength [ 24 ]. In situ composites on the other hand interfere with BC fibril structure during the synthetic process, which can cause a reduction in its mechanical, crystalline and physiological features.…”

Obtainment of bacterial cellulose with added propolis extract for cosmetic applications

“…[ 12 ] Therefore, BC composites, blends, and the incorporation of additives have been investigated to improve such aspects and broaden the applicability of this natural material. [ 13–15 ]…”

“…[12] Therefore, BC composites, blends, and the incorporation of additives have been investigated to improve such aspects and broaden the applicability of this natural material. [13][14][15] Polymer modification is an efficient method for improving or adding structural and chemical characteristics to BC films, [9] providing antimicrobial, conductive, magnetic, optical, and other properties. [16] Studies have reported polymer modifications through additive formulations, which can be done in two ways: in situ (during membrane formation) [15,16] or ex situ (after the membrane has already been formed).…”

“…[13][14][15] Polymer modification is an efficient method for improving or adding structural and chemical characteristics to BC films, [9] providing antimicrobial, conductive, magnetic, optical, and other properties. [16] Studies have reported polymer modifications through additive formulations, which can be done in two ways: in situ (during membrane formation) [15,16] or ex situ (after the membrane has already been formed). [7] Such methods are used to provide antimicrobial activity, [6] antioxidant activity, [15,17] and healing properties.…”

“…[16] Studies have reported polymer modifications through additive formulations, which can be done in two ways: in situ (during membrane formation) [15,16] or ex situ (after the membrane has already been formed). [7] Such methods are used to provide antimicrobial activity, [6] antioxidant activity, [15,17] and healing properties. [18] Propolis is a natural substance that has been widely studied for use in cosmetic applications.…”