Flax Fibres Fabric Surface Decoration with Nanoparticles - A Promising Tool for Developing Hybrid Reinforcing Agent of Thermoplastic Polymers

Abstract

In this study, the synthesis and characterization of functionalized flax fabric with adequate titanium and aluminium precursors is presented (AlCl3 or Ti(C4H9O)4). The modified flax fabrics were analysed both visually and instrumentally by IR spectroscopy and microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermal analysis (DTA-TG). The data highlight that the nature and amount of functionalizing agent induce important morphological changes of the surface. These flax fabrics decorated with alumina or titanium dioxide nanoparticles are desired to be used as reinforcing agents of different recycled polyethylene terephthalate. The properties will be designed by the nature, processing route and amount of the precursors used for the surface modification of these cellulosic fibres/fabrics, the surface decoration increasing their thermal properties (especially thermal stability) but also surface properties (especially roughness, hydrophilic/hydrophobic ratio, etc.). All these factors will finally induce improved compatibility between phases and thus improved physico-mechanical and thermal properties. Taking into account the large amount of natural cellulosic fibres and recycled thermoplastic polymers, added-value products will be obtained and at the same time some environmental issues are solved. The expected applications can include the fabrication of automotive parts, protective panels for highways and railways, etc.