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Multifunctional Alginate Composite Fibers Based on Pre-Crosslinked Spinning Solutions
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Scientists have created a new type of fiber made from seaweed extract (alginate) and titanium dioxide nanoparticles that's strong, biodegradable, and could replace plastic-based textiles—offering a potential way to cut down on microplastic pollution. As a bonus, these fibers can break down formaldehyde (a chemical found in some fabrics and furniture that can irritate lungs and eyes) and resist catching fire, making them promising for healthier, safer textiles in homes.
Because the environmental pollution arising from microplastics and carbon emissions continues to intensify, biodegradable alginate fibers have become green candidates to relieve the environmental crisis. However, the facile fabrication of alginate fibers with excellent mechanical strength and specific functionalities remains challenging. This study incorporates titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles into pre-crosslinked sodium alginate (SA) spinning solutions to fabricate multifunctional alginate composite fibers by a one-step wet-spinning strategy. Due to the pre-crosslinking of calcium ions (Ca2+), the spinning solution shows favorable rheological performance for wet spinning, ensuring the continuous fabrication of the fibers. By optimizing the TiO2 content, SA/TiO2 composite fibers exhibit oriented and uniform morphology, as well as enhanced mechanical performance (breaking stress of 400 MPa and Young’s modulus of 17.2 GPa). The incorporation of TiO2 also endows the fibers with excellent formaldehyde degradation and quick self-extinguished capacity, expanding their applications in formaldehyde-removal and flame-retardant textiles.
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Scientists developed a new method for making stronger alginate fibers from seaweed-derived materials as a biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based synthetic fibers. The resulting fibers had breaking strength of 474 MPa, exceeding most plant-based fibers without additives. Replacing synthetic fibers like polyester with biodegradable alternatives is important because synthetic textiles are one of the largest sources of microplastic pollution through washing and wear.
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