Hydrophilic and Soft Kapok Fiber/Carboxymethyl Cellulose Paper-Based Composite Materials with Enhanced Mechanical Properties for Potential Personal Care Products

Abstract

In recent years, the widespread use of petroleum-based materials, especially in disposable consumer products, has posed increasing environmental challenges, highlighting the urgent need for biodegradable, bio-based materials. In this study, biodegradable paper-based materials were fabricated using kapok fibers (KF) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) by wet-laid and hot-press drying processes. The microstructure, pore characteristics, mechanical properties, air permeability, and wettability of the materials were systematically characterized, and the influence of CMC content on these properties was examined. The results showed that CMC significantly affected the pore size and distribution of the KF/CMC materials, with higher CMC content leading to reduced pore size, decreased air permeability, and lower water contact angles, while dynamic spreading time increased. The addition of CMC notably enhanced the tensile strength of the materials under both dry and wet conditions, reaching a maximum tensile strength of 11.29 MPa at a CMC content of 1.8%. Furthermore, they demonstrated excellent flexibility (bending stiffness < 0.25 cN·cm²/cm), more than 76% liquid retention and over 65% degradation rate (30 days). These KF/CMC materials showcase a promising combination of softness, good strength, liquid absorbency, and biodegradability, making them suitable for personal care products. By utilizing natural and renewable raw materials, this study provides a possible alternative to petroleum-based products, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Graphical Abstract