Application of cellulose fiber-modified polylactic acid solution for fabricating high-performance paper

Paper products, with their biodegradability, low cost, and scalable production, have become a strong alternative to plastic packaging. However, cellulose paper has drawbacks like poor hydrophobicity, barrier properties, and mechanical strength, which severely limit its use in packaging. In this study, a cellulose fiber-modified polylactic acid (PLA) solution was first prepared via physical blending, with PLA as the matrix and various cellulose fibers as reinforcements. The base paper was then impregnated in this cellulose fiber-modified PLA solution through a dip-coating process to produce high-performance paper with a hierarchical sandwich structure. The results indicated that the cellulose fiber-modified PLA solution reduced the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of the base paper by approximately 97%, while increasing its tensile strength, elongation at break, and folding resistance by 24%, 114%, and 226% respectively. Meanwhile, the water contact angle increased from 40.41° to 95.06°, indicating a significant shift in the base paper from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. Specifically, the comprehensive performance of the base paper coated with a solution of cellulose fiber-modified PLA containing 2.5% (mass fraction) broadleaf wood fibers is better. Moreover, waste white cardboard fibers, similar to wood pulp fibers, could effectively enhance paper's strength and barrier properties. • Fabricated cellulose fiber-modified PLA coated paper with a hierarchical sandwich structure. • Provided a simple and effective way to develop high-performance paper. • Prepared hydrophobic paper with good barrier properties and mechanical properties. • Provided a feasible strategy for the high-value utilization of waste paper.