PLA–Vine Cellulose Biocomposites from Pruning Waste: Design, Fabrication and Biocompatibility for Biomedical Applications

The valorization of agri-food residues represents an attractive strategy within the circular economy for the development of bio-based materials. In this study, a PLA–cellulose biocomposite (PLACEL10) was developed using cellulose extracted from vine pruning residues (Vitis vinifera, Tintilla de Rota). Cellulose was isolated through sequential acid and alkaline treatments, and the extracted material was incorporated into PLA by melt blending to produce injection-molded specimens. FT-IR confirmed the progressive removal of non-cellulosic components during extraction, while SEM revealed a relatively homogeneous dispersion of cellulose within the polymer matrix. Mechanical characterization showed that PLACEL10 exhibited higher stiffness and tensile strength than the processed PLA and BCF10 controls, although with reduced elongation at break. Biocompatibility was evaluated using hFOB 1.19 osteoblasts by MTS assay, showing viability values above 95% and a proliferative response at 72 h. These results suggest that vine-pruning-derived cellulose can act as an effective reinforcement in PLA and support the potential of this agricultural residue as a feedstock for bio-based composites with possible biomedical and packaging applications. Although the current extraction route involves chemical treatments and cannot be considered fully green, the approach provides a promising route for agricultural waste valorization.