A self-healing polymer complex

Abstract

A self-healing polymer complex comprising lignin (most preferably methacrylated lignin) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC). Lignin, a biopolymer, an abundant renewable resource is chemically modified and combined with cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) which contributes exceptional mechanical reinforcement to the final product. The lignin used in the present invention is extracted from oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) via microwave-assisted heating (MAH) and this technique is found highly efficient. As a coating formulation, the polymer complex is experimentally found to exhibit self-healing and enhanced adhesion which renders it suitable for automotive applications and the like. (FIGURE 8)