Fully biobased fluorine-free water- and oil-resistant cellulose-chitosan pulp molding with enhanced durability and closed-loop recyclability

In response to the global anti-plastic movement, cellulose-based materials have gained attention as eco-friendly alternatives to plastics. However, their water and oil resistance often depend on non-biodegradable coatings or harmful fluorinated substances. This study proposes a green and efficient approach combining internal sizing and hot-press molding to produce fully biobased cellulose/chitosan pulp molding composites. These composites exhibit a dense structure with excellent water and oil resistance (Cobb 60 value: 20.44 g/m²; kit rating: 12/12), effectively blocking hot water and oil at 95 ± 5°C for 30 minutes without penetration. The composites retain these properties even after wear, bending, or washing. Furthermore, they demonstrate strong mechanical performance (tensile strength: 61.5 MPa dry, 37.8 MPa wet), biodegradability, and recyclability. This novel approach offers a scalable, sustainable solution for producing fluorine-free, biodegradable cellulose-based materials, with promising applications in packaging, food containers, and other environmentally friendly products. • Developed a green and efficient approach combining internal sizing and hot-press molding to produce fully biobased CCPC. • CCPC have excellent water- and oil-resistant performance using a Fluorine-Free and efficient method. • CCPC have impressive durability and stability, maintaining water- and oil resistance even after wear, bending, and washing. • CCPC have good mechanical properties. • CCPC have excellent fully degradability and closed-loop recyclability.