Abstract
Sisal fiber was pretreated by continuous screw extrusion steam explosion to prepare steam exploded sisal fiber (SESF) preforms. An amphipathic bio-based thermosetting resin with poor mechanical properties was cured by epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) and citric acid (CA). The obtained resin was used to modify SESF preforms and prepare eco-friendly biocomposites. The molar ratios (R) of carboxylic groups to epoxy groups and resin contents in biocomposites were adjusted. The biocomposites were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-transfer infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), tensile testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), water absorption and water contact angle measurements. The maximum thermal decomposition temperature of the biocomposites was 373.1 °C. The curing efficiency of the resin in the biocomposites improved with the increase of resin content, and reached a maximum at R = 1.2. The tensile strength of the biocomposites reached a maximum of 30.4 MPa at R = 1.2 and 40% resin content. SEM images showed excellent interfacial bonding and fracture mechanisms within the biocomposites. The biocomposites exhibited satisfactory water resistance. ESO resin cured with polybasic carboxylic acid is therefore a good bio-based modifier for lignocellulose, that prepare biocomposites with good mechanical properties, hydrophobicity, and thermostability, and which has a potential application in packaging.
Highlights
The widespread use of petroleum-based materials and products is leading to depleted nonrenewable resources and increased environmental pollution
epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) resin cured by citric acid (CA), to obtain biocomposites that are renewable, biodegradable, and exhibit high hydrophobicity and tensile strength
The SF bundle structure was destroyed by the screw extrusion steam explosion pretreatment
Summary
The widespread use of petroleum-based materials and products is leading to depleted nonrenewable resources and increased environmental pollution.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
