Abstract
New nanocomposites of an unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were prepared. Effects of CNC silane surface treatment on the morphology, mechanical and thermal properties, viscoelastic behavior and water absorption of CNC reinforced UPR have been studied. The results showed that the crystallinity index of the CNCs reduced after the surface treatment. However, it did not impact the size and aspect ratio of the rod-like nanoparticles. Tensile tests showed that both the strength and stiffness of the UPR improved upon the incorporation of silane treated CNCs (STCNCs), whereas no significant changes were observed on the impact energy after the treatment. Interestingly, the impact energy increased significantly with the addition of untreated CNCs. The viscoelastic behavior and thermal degradation for both the CNC and STCNC-reinforced nanocomposites were improved. The water-absorption behavior of the UPR was found to decrease upon incorporation of CNCs, and a further reduction was observed with STCNCs.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
