The effect of chemically treated all-cellulose composites (ACCs) with dodecyltriethoxysilane (DTES) solution on the structural-property relationship

Abstract

Abstract Cellulose is the most abundant natural polymer on the Earth that is widely used in bio-based composites due to its high mechanical properties, availability and biodegradability. All-cellulose composites (ACCs) are known as a new class monocomponent of biocomposites due to both reinforcing and matrix phases that are based on cellulose. However, a technical challenge for ACCs is observed due to their propensity for high moisture absorption (water uptake), leading to the instability and deterioration of the mechanical properties. Therefore, this research focussed towards the improvement of the surface of ACCs in order to increase the resistance to water absorption. Prior to the characterisations, ACCs were chemically treated using dodecytriethoxysilane (DTES) coating solution by dip coating method. In this present study, the effects of two control factors: (i) DTES concentration (1.5, 7.5, and 12.5 vol%), and (ii) heating temperature (50, and 100 °C), were investigated on the ACCs. Upon completion of this treatment, three possible characterisations were conducted including of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and water absorption (WA) testing. Creation of polysiloxane layer was expected to reduce the tendency to absorb water in ACCs while being applied in the outdoor applications.