Abstract: The development described provides methods of producing functionalized cellulose in a one-step acid treatment process and of using the cellulose so derived to make composite polymer materials. The composite materials may include mixtures of the acid treated cellulose, functionalized cellulose polymers, including but not limited to cellulose acetate, cellulose butyrate, cellulose propionate, methyl cellulose, and ethyl cellulose, biobased and/or biodegradable polymers, impact modifying agents, and other components such as nucleating agents and pigments. The composite materials formed possess thermomechanical properties that differ from those of similar polymer composites made using prior art. In particular, the composite and nanocomposite materials are characterized by increased heat distortion temperatures and improved impact strengths.

Abstract: Grafting polymer chains onto filler particles is an established methodology for creating superior polymer composite materials. Stereocomplexation is a non-bonded interaction between polymers that leads to a crystalline form having a higher melting temperature than the non-stereocomplexed form; stereocomplexed polymers often have superior properties compared to their non-stereocomplexed constituents. The present application discloses combining grafted filler particles with matrix materials in which the grafted polymer layer forms a stereocomplex with the polymer matrix. The resulting composite materials have properties which exceed both filled polymer systems and stereocomplexed polymers.

Abstract: The development provides polymer compositions that may restrict mobility of moving people, animals and objects within an area, including individual combatants and vehicles. The polymer-based compositions create an artificial ice material to directedly and reversibly reduce ground traction. The development also may include a non-toxic reversal agent, matched to the chemical characteristics of the polymer compositions, that restores traction when applied to a surface coated with the initial, traction-reducing polymer.

Abstract: The development described provides methods of producing functionalized cellulose in a one-step acid treatment process and of using the cellulose so derived to make composite polymer materials. The composite materials may include mixtures of the acid treated cellulose, functionalized cellulose polymers, including but not limited to cellulose acetate, cellulose butyrate, cellulose propionate, methyl cellulose, and ethyl cellulose, biobased and/or biodegradable polymers, impact modifying agents, and other components such as nucleating agents and pigments. The composite materials formed possess thermomechanical properties that differ from those of similar polymer composites made using prior art. In particular, the composite and nanocomposite materials are characterized by increased heat distortion temperatures and improved impact strengths.