Microstructure, Polymer Dynamics, Polymer–Nanoparticle Interactions, and Rheology of Biodegradable Polylactic Acid Nanocomposites with Cellulose Nanocrystals: A Microscopic Perspective

The increasing demand for sustainable materials has accelerated research into biodegradable polymers as alternatives to conventional plastics. Polylactic acid (PLA), a leading biopolymer, offers promising biodegradability but often suffers from low mechanical strength. To enhance its properties, bioderived nanoparticles (NPs) can be incorporated to form biodegradable polymer nanocomposites (PNCs). However, a microscopic understanding of PLA-NP interactions remains limited, and interfacial incompatibility presents challenges for effective property optimization and warrants further investigation. In this study, we conduct a comprehensive analysis of PLA-based PNCs reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). Using small-angle scattering and quasi-elastic neutron scattering, we examine the effects of CNC incorporation on PLA's microstructure, dynamics, and macroscopic properties. Addition…