New Nanocomposite Materials Based on Cellulose Fibers and Other Biopolymers - Natural Polymers, Biopolymers, Biomaterials, and Their Composites, Blends, and IPNs - page 159

modulus increased by 30% (with 5% BC), while the elongation at break was reduced
from 144 to 24%. These results can be explained by the inherent morphology of BC
with its nano- and micro-fibrillar network.
Figure 5. Images of composites (A) and SEM micrographs of TPS nanocomposites with 5 wt% of VC
(B) and BC (C).
This study provides an initial insight into the use and characteristics of bacterial
cellulose in starch-based composites. Bacterial cellulose acts efficiently as reinforce-
ment, even in relatively low quantities, since 5% produced a significant increase in
both modulus and tensile strength. These materials are promising candidates in appli-
cations like food packaging and biodegradable artifacts. However, the ensuing com-
posites displayed a strong sensitivity to high relative humidity.