Enzymatically fibrillated cellulose pulp-based monofilaments spun from water; enhancement of mechanical properties and water stability

Water-based spinning dopes composed of enzymatically fibrillated pulp (EFP), poly(vinyl alcohol) and glutaraldehyde crosslinker were successfully spun into monofilaments. Specimens containing EFP concentrations of 50 and 60 wt% were obtained utilising a customised spinning system based on a syringe pump. Monofilaments exhibited high stiffness, good strength and low strain; maximum tensile values were obtained at a cellulose concentration of 60 wt%. Reduced graphene oxide was incorporated into the monofilaments as a lubricant, enhancing elongation while also providing a slight reinforcing effect. Mechanical behaviour was dictated by a synergy of competing interaction-types and mechanisms. Selected monofilaments were coated with cellulose acetate propionate, resulting in enhanced water strength and stability. The stability of the monofilaments was demonstrated in their ability to be tied into a knot, and to be used to prepare two- and three-dimensional structures.