Cellulose fiber and nano-fiber composites based on castor oil-polyurethane matrix

The bimodal combination of cellulose fibre dimensions resulted in complementary properties from the same chemical composition. The nano-cellulose fibers provided thixotropy to the castor oil based reactants. The composites exhibited strength, toughness and a modulus suitable for application as cladding. The appearance can be improved by formation with one or both outer layers laminated with wood veneer, decorative paper board or metal foil. These micro-nano cellulose composites consist predominantly of materials derived from natural resources, they are structurally strong and resistant to water and common cleaning agents over a potential lifetime, while ultimately biodegradable. They can be formed into various shapes using various compression molds, and once cured they retain their shape due to their thermoset chemistry.