Application of cellulose micro/nanofibrils in the production of plaster-based nanocomposites

Abstract The present study aimed to replace plaster concentrations with cellulose micro/nanofibrils (CMF/CNF), evaluating the physical and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. To make the nanocomposites, the plaster mass was replaced by levels of 0.5; 1; 1.5, and 2% (m/m) CMF/CNF. The nanocomposites were produced in dimensions of 40 x 40 x 160 mm. They were evaluated at 28 days through apparent density, water absorption, bending strength, compression strength, and microstructural analysis of the surface of the nanocomposites. The research results indicated an increase in apparent density and a decrease in water absorption for the nanocomposite with 0.5% CMF/CNF. The mechanical properties showed equivalent values for bending strength and increased compressive strength of the nanocomposites with 0.5% CMF/CNF compared to the control. The results found present an alternative trait to produce plaster, aiming to value CMF/CNF and to promote the sustainability of the civil construction sector.