Cellulose has a potential to become a key resource in the development of biodegradable film composites. In this work, cellulose was modified by using 2-(Trifluromethyl)benzoylchloride by base-catalyzed reaction. Modification of cellulose was confirmed by IR studies. The biodegradable composite films were developed by film casting method using modified cellulose with Poly(vinyl alcohol) in different compositions. The film composites were characterized by mechanical, moisture absorption, gas barrier, and biodegradable properties. Obtained films have shown transparency and flexibility and displayed good mechanical properties. Film composites also showed good biodegradability. Better barrier properties showed by film composites as the percentage of modified cellulose increased. This indicates the importance of modified cellulose as a reinforcing agent. After evaluating these properties of film composites, we came to conclusion that these biocomposites can be used to membrane and packaging applications. 1. Introduction Recently, cellulose-based composites have come to the attention of researchers becauseof the numerous advantages which these renewable fibres represent. Cellulose is one of the most abundant biopolymers in nature and estimated to be at levels approaching 1011 tons annually. Furthermore, cellulose is considered to be one of the most promising renewable resources and an environmentally friendly [1–4] alternative to products derived from the petrochemical industry. Plant-derived cellulose has been widely used as either reinforcement. Recently, modified cellulose has been used as reinforcements for various composites due to its excellent mechanical performance and fully biodegradable in a wide variety of environmental conditions. As a result, various cellulose-based composites have been prepared. Chemical modification of cellulose [5–8] is an important route for the production of multifunctional materials. Even though, cellulose has not reached its potential application in many areas because of its infusibility and insolubility; but at the same time, cellulosic fibres are hygroscopic in nature; moisture absorption can result in swelling of the fibres which may lead to microcracking of the composite and degradation of mechanical properties. This problem can be overcome by treating these fibres with suitable chemicals to decrease the hydroxyl groups which may be involved in the hydrogen bonding within the cellulose molecules. Chemical treatments may activate these groups or can introduce new moieties that can effectively interlock with the matrix. A
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