Abstract
The fibrillated cellulose embedded in the polymer matrix was visualized using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). A rhodamine-appended diblock copolymer (RhBCP) was used as a novel polymer dispersant to adsorb fibrillated celluloses and achieve fluorescent labeling and good dispersion in high-density polyethylene. The composite was produced through in situ fibrillation of wood pulp fibers during the process of melt compounding using urea as the fibrillation-accelerating agent. The length and width of the fiber, aspect ratio, and polydispersity values were determined using RhBCP and CLSM. The optimal RhBCP content to achieve good CLSM images and a high Young’s modulus was 2 wt %. The effects of urea concentration and kneading time on the fibrillation were investigated, indicating that the fiber length and aspect ratio were approximately 40 μm and 40, respectively, under optimal conditions. The maximum Young’s modulus was recorded under these conditions, and the recorded value agreed well with the value predicted by the Halpin–Tsai equation. Cellulose fibers fragmented under conditions of low urea concentration and prolonged kneading times. The method developed has the potential to analyze various cellulosic composite systems and improve their application prospects.
Published Version
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