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Cellulose fibres hybrid chemical modification approach employed in polymer composite applications

Stefan Cichosz and Anna Masek

Following research study highlights the importance of an indispensable process in cellulose fibres (Arbocel UFC100 – Ultra Fine Cellulose) modification, which may easily change the biopolymer properties - drying. Study provides a broad range of information considering the drying process consequences on the chemical treatment of the cellulose and properties of cellulose-filled polymer composites based on an ethylene-norbornene copolymer (TOPAS Elastomer E-140). This research underlines the importance of UFC100 moisture content reduction, considering polymer composites applications, with the employment of techniques different than thermal treating. Therefore, a new hybrid chemical modification approach is introduced (Fig). It consists of two steps: solvent exchange (with ethanol either hexane) and chemical treatment (maleic anhydride - MA). Hybrid chemical modification of cellulose fibres: Path 0 – regular surface modification with MA, Path 1 – solvent exchanges before the surface modification with MA, Path 2 – solvent exchange after the surface modification with MA What should be emphasized, in case of all carried out UFC100 treatments a decrease in moisture content was evidenced. Nevertheless, it may be claimed that ethanol employment highly contributes to the lowering of water absorption ability of cellulose (up to 1.65%). Moreover, regarding composite specimen mechanical properties, the highest performance improvement was noticed in case of TOPAS + UFC100/ND/MA/1/E sample. Here, not dried cellulose has been modified with MA after a solvent exchange with ethanol. What is more, in case of that sample, also an improvement in storage modulus has been detected. Both Payne effect and filler efficiency factor indicate a possibility of a filler reinforcing nature. In performed research new filler hybrid modification approach, being undoubtedly a scientific novelty is introduced. Moreover, valuable data considering composite properties filled with cellulose fibres of various moisture content has been provided (thermal, mechanical, structure).