Preparation and characterization of cellulose-ZnO nanocomposite based on ionic liquid ([C4mim]Cl)

Cellulose-ZnO composite was achieved by microwave assisted dissolution of cellulose in ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (C₄mim]Cl) followed by addition of premixed ground of Zn(CH₃COO)₂·2H₂O and NaOH. Surface characterization, optical property and thermal stability of nanocomposite were determined by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–Vis spectroscopy and thermo gravimetric analysis. XRD patterns showed the ZnO in polymer matrix has the wurtzite structure. Presence of zinc oxide nanoparticles and cellulose fibers in the composites were observed by SEM. Band-edge transition of zinc oxide in the nanocomposite occurs in lower wavelength than bulk zinc oxide. Thermal stability of nanocomposite was lower than regenerated cellulose due to catalyst behavior of zinc oxide nanoparticles in cellulose matrix.