Green Engineering: Poly (lactic acid) Composite Materials Fortified with Surface-Modified Nanocellulose from Borassus flabellifer Leaves

Traditional plastics pose environmental threats, prompting a shift toward bioplastics. This study presents a novel approach by reinforcing poly(lactic) acid (PLA) with surface-modified nanocellulose (SMNC) from lignocellulosic biomass. The optimized PLA-SMNC composite (95 mg of PLA and 3.5% SMNC) achieved a water contact angle of 117°. Characterization through AFM, FTIR, and XRD analyses confirmed the successful integration of SMNC with PLA. UV stability tests demonstrated a significant reduction in UVA transmission (6.96%) and strong UVB resistance. Mechanical testing revealed enhanced properties, with the tensile strength (0.244 MPa) and Young's modulus (0.0030 GPa) of the PLA-SMNC film surpassing those of neat PLA. The PLA-SMNC composite exhibited superior biodegradability and preservation capabilities for liquid beverages. This advancement represents a significant stride in biopolymer technology, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics. By utilizing SMNC to enhance the properties of PLA, this study pioneered a promising avenue for industrial applications.