Enhanced Biodegradability and Thermal Stability of Epoxy Resin Composites Reinforced with Modified Bacterial Cellulose

The presented article discusses the preparation of polymer composites from bacterial cellulose (BC) and epoxy resin (EP), emphasizing their potential use as bio-based construction materials replacing traditional glass fiber composites. The key objective was to enhance the compatibility of BC with epoxy resin through chemical modification using N-2-Aminoethyl-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (AAPS) and plasma treatment. BC/EP composites obtained by hot pressing were subjected to surface analysis (FTIR, contact angles, optical microscopy) and thermal tests (TGA). The studies demonstrated that plasma treatment altered the surface topology of cellulose, thereby enhancing the integration of BC with EP. Thermogravimetric results confirmed satisfactory thermal stability of the composites, with the greatest resistance demonstrated by composites with plasma modification. Solar aging tests showed minor damage, but the material remained structurally stable. Biodegradation tests showed that BC composites degraded faster than glass fiber-reinforced composites, making them environmentally friendly. The presented research indicates that BC can be used as a natural reinforcing material for composites and potentially replace traditional materials in industrial applications.