The potential of yeast as eco-filler for waterborne polyurethane and its reinforcing mechanism

Songmin Shang, Ka Lok Chiu, Chun Wah Marcus Yuen, Shou-xiang Kinor Jiang, Enling Hu

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

Abstract

The potential of using yeast as the eco-filler for waterborne polyurethane (WPU) has been investigated in this research. The composites are synthesized by dispersing yeast into the 3-Triethoxysilyl Propylamine modified WPU solution followed by drying at 85 °C. The effects of yeast on the chemical structure, optical properties, thermal properties and mechanical properties of the polyurethane (PU)-yeast composites have been investigated. Yeast is well dispersed in the composite matrix and can crosslink with the WPU. Unlike many other PU composites, the PU-yeast composite has a higher clarity. It has a better thermal stability than the pure PU. Its stiffness, tensile strength and elongation at break are improved simultaneously because yeast can reinforce the composite with its cell wall and induce crazing during plastic deformation. As a result, yeast is an excellent eco-filler for the WPU and can be a low cost replacement for nano-cellulose.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)6-13
Number of pages8
JournalEuropean Journal of Pharmacology
Volume742
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 21 Aug 2014

Keywords

  • Crazing
  • Polymer-matrix composites
  • Polyurethane
  • Stress/strain curves
  • Yeast

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology

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