Download (PDF 140 KB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/33709.pdf
Abstract
In this study, Raman spectroscopy was used to investigate the spatial distribution of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) in extruded polypropylene (PP) filaments. Raman maps, based on cellulose and PP bands, obtained at 1 micron spatial resolution showed that the CNCs were aggregated to various degrees in the PP matrix. Of the three composites analyzed, two showed clear existence of phase separated regions – Raman images with PP strong and cellulose absent or
vice versa. For the third composite, the situation was slightly improved but a clear transition interface between the PP-abundant and CNC-abundant regions was observed indicating that the CNC remained poorly dispersed. Nevertheless, tensile and modulus tests of the composites indicated up to 10% improvement compared to PP alone.
Keywords
Nanotechnology,
cellulose fibers,
cellulose,
chemical composition,
composite materials,
mechanical properties,
fiber-reinforced plastics,
fibrous composites,
thermoplastic composites,
elasticity,
modulus of elasticity,
nanostructured materials,
crystallization,
Raman spectroscopy,
wood-plastic composites,
polypropylene,
extrusion process,
tensile strength,
nanocomposites,
nanocrystals,
wood-plastic materials
Citation
Agarwal, U.P.; Sabo, R.; Reiner, R.S.; Clemons, C.M.; Rudie, A.W. 2009. Raman analysis and mapping of cellulose nanocrystal-polypropylene composite. In: Proceedings of 15th international symposium on wood, fiber and pulping chemistry. 2009 June 15-18; Oslo, Norway: Congress-Conference AS, www.congrex.no. P-131, 4 p., limited availability. http://www.fpl.fs.fed.us/documnts/pdf2009/fpl_2009_agarwal001.pdf or www.fpl.fs.fed.us/products/publications/specific_pub.php?posting_id=17552
