Cellulose fiber/poly(ethylene-co-methacrylic acid) composites with ionic interphase

Abstract

Abstract Cellulose fiber/thermoplastic composites with ionic interphase were prepared from modified cellulose fibers and poly(ethylene-co-methacrylic acid) (PE-co-MA). The cellulose fiber was treated by using coupling agent or sodium hydroxide followed by introduction of ionic quaternary ammonium groups on the fiber surface, which was then compounded with the polymer having anionic groups. The effect of the ionic interface on the composite physical and thermal dynamic properties was investigated. An obvious improvement in mechanical strength of the ionic-interface composites was observed due to acid–base interactions. The improved adhesion could be ascribed to the interaction between cationic grafted groups at the cellulose fiber surface and the anionic groups in the PE-co-MA.