Fundamentals and Recent Advances in Nanocomposites Based on Polymers and Nanocellulose

Fundamentals and Recent Advances in Nanocomposites Based on Polymers and Nanocellulose brings together the latest research in cellulose-based nanocomposites, covering fundamentals, processing, properties, performance, applications, and the state of the art.

The book begins by explaining the fundamentals of cellulose and cellulose-based nanocomposites, including sources, extraction, types, classification, linkages, model structure, model compounds, and characterization techniques. The second part of the book covers the incorporation of cellulose fillers to improve the properties or characteristics of nanocomposites, organized by composite category, including in aerogels, thermoplastic composites, thermoset composites, bioplastic composites, carbon nanofibers, rubber composites, carbon fibers, and foaming materials. Throughout these chapters, there is an emphasis on the latest innovations and application potential. Finally, applications are explored in more detail, notably focusing on the utilization of nanocellulose in biodegradable composites for biomedical applications, along with other important industrial application areas.

This book is of great interest to researchers, scientists, and advanced students working with bio-based materials, and across polymer science, nanomaterials, composite materials, plastics engineering, chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, as well as R&D professionals, engineers, and industrialists interested in the development of bio-based materials for advanced applications or material commercialization.

• Presents the fundamentals of cellulose-based nanocomposites, including sources, extraction, types, classification, linkages, structure, compounds, and characterization.
• Discusses and analyzes the most suitable fabrication methods and processing techniques for cellulose as a reinforcement in a range of composites.
• Opens the door to a range of cutting-edge applications and considers key aspects such as cost, lifecycle, and biodegradability.

Dr. Md. Rezaur Rahman is an Associate Professor in Chemical Engineering and Energy Sustainability at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). He expertise in polymer engineering, advanced materials, membrane technology, nanocomposites, and sustainable environmental solutions. With a distinguished academic career spanning teaching, research, innovation, and leadership, Dr. Rahman has made significant contributions to the advancement of sustainable materials science and environmental engineering. He has an exceptional scholarly record, having authored over 350 peer-reviewed publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, along with 10 academic books, numerous book chapters, and conference proceedings. His work focuses on biodegradable polymers, polymer nanocomposites, membrane-based separation processes, waste valorization, and circular economy-driven materials, addressing pressing challenges in sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmental protection. His commitment to interdisciplinary research, translational innovation, and policy-relevant outcomes positions him as a key contributor to sustainable development goals and industry–academia collaboration.