Publications by authors named "Ruth Barajas-Ledesma"
Article Synopsis
- Carboxylated nanocellulose superabsorbents (SAPs) can be created by modifying cellulose fibers with different cations, affecting their gel structure and properties.
- Seven cations of varying valencies were tested for their influence on the gelation process and superabsorbent performance, showing that the type of counter-ion significantly impacts absorption capacity in deionised water.
- The stability and performance of these gels depend on the cation's valency, with monovalent cations relying on physical interactions for gelation and divalent cations creating stronger ionic cross-links, leading to differences in absorption rates.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for diversity in the market and alternative materials for personal protective equipment (PPE). Paper has high coatability for tunable barrier performance, and an agile production process, making it a potential substitute for polyolefin-derived PPE materials. Bleached and newsprint papers were laminated with polyethylene (PE) coatings of different thicknesses, and characterised for their potential use as medical gowns for healthcare workers and COVID-19 patients.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF