Graft copolymerization, biofibers

In order to develop composites with better mechanical properties and environmental performance, it becomes necessary to increase the hydrophobicity of the biofibers and to improve the interface between matrix and biofibers. Graft copolymerization of biofibers is one of the best methods to attain these improvements. As of now, only few studies have reported the use of biofiber graft copolymers as reinforcing material in the preparation of composites [33], Mechanical properties of thermoplastic composites reinforced with acrylate-gro/led henequen cellulose fibers were studied. It has been found that best results could be obtained with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-grafted cellulose fibers because of better fiber-matrix adhesion. The modulus of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) composites is increased when grafted or ungrafted cellulose are used as reinforcement but the composites with... 

Thakur, V. K., Singha, A. S., Misra, B. N. (2011). Graft copolymerization of methyl methacrylate onto cellulosic biofibers. 

Thakur VK, Singha AS, Thakur MK. Graft copolymerization of methyl acrylate onto cellulosic biofibers synthesis, characterization and apphcations. J Polym Environ 2012 20 (1) 164-174. 

Thakur VK, Singha AS, Misra BN (2011) Graft copolymerization of methyl methacrylate onto cellulosic biofibers. J Appl Polym Sci 122(l) 532-544. doi 10.1002/app.34094 Thakur VK, Singha AS, Thakur MK (2012a) Green composites from natural fibers mechanical and chemical aging properties. Int J Polym Anal Charact 17(6) 401-407. doi 10.1080/... 

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