Abstract
Due to its physical properties and its ease of manufacture, paper is widely used in various engineering applications such as electrical insulation materials for components in high voltage technology. In this study, paper loaded with ferroelectric nanoparticles (BaTiO3and SrTiO3) was made with fibers obtained from plants growing on the Moroccan soil [Halfa (Stipa tenacissima), Agave (Agave americana), Pennisetum (Pennisetum alopecuroides), Typha (Typha latifolia), and Junc (Juncus effusus)] and two commercial pulps (bleached softwood Kraft and newsprint grade thermomechanical pulps). A retention aid, cation polyacrylamide (Percol 292), was necessary to retain ferroelectric particles in the fibrous network and improve the dispersion of strontium titanate particles. The different pulp and handsheets used were characterized according to standard methods (Pulp and Paper Technical Association of Canada, PAPTAC). It is well known that annual and perennial plants contain high percentages of fines (length < 0.2 mm) and short fibers. The results show that there is a strong interdependence between the dielectric properties of the loaded paper and surface finish, porosity, dispersion level of ceramic particles, fines content, shape, conformability, and sheet formation. The single dielectric relaxation detected towards low frequencies is attributed to hydroxyl groups present on fiber surfaces, in ceramic particles and adsorbed water.
Highlights
The adoption of new legislations on environmental issues is limiting the widespread use of synthetic composites
Several materials based on natural products have emerged
In developing countries, about 60% of cellulose fibers arise from nonwood plants: bagasse, straw, alfa, flax, sisal, and so forth [2, 3]
Summary
The adoption of new legislations on environmental issues is limiting the widespread use of synthetic composites. Researchers have been asked to develop biodegradable and renewable products. Several materials based on natural products have emerged. Raw or modified lignocellulosic fibers are some of the most interesting materials because of their highly renewable character and high annual production (50 to 100 billion tons/year) [1]. The largest natural fiber consumer is by far the paper industry. In developing countries, about 60% of cellulose fibers arise from nonwood plants: bagasse, straw, alfa, flax, sisal, and so forth [2, 3]. The mechanical and electrical properties, surface finish, and porosity of paper made with these fibers depend on fiber extraction process, bleaching, cellulose content, fiber length and conformability, fiber source, presence of metal ions, moisture content, and manufacturing process [4,5,6,7,8]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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 call
