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Organically Modified Nanoclay and Aluminum Hydroxide Incorporated Bionanocomposites towards Enhancement of Physico-mechanical and Thermal Properties of Lignocellulosic Structural Reinforcement

Journal Article · · Journal of Polymers and the Environment
 [1];  [2];  [3];  [1]
  1. Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Centre for Materials Science and Technology, Mechanical Engineering Department (India)
  2. Indian Institute of Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering (India)
  3. Manipal University Jaipur, Mechanical Engineering Department (India)

A range of bio-nanocomposites were prepared by incorporation of organo modified montmorillonite nanoclay (OMMT) with or without use of aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH){sub 3}) within polylactic acid (PLA) solution. Furthermore, the solution was employed for modification of ligno-cellulosic (jute) fabric structural reinforcements. The successful incorporation of nanofillers within the host polymer, polylactic acid (PLA) was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Water uptake and swelling behaviour studies revealed that the water uptake and swelling ratio of bio-composites reduced significantly as compared to pristine jute fabric, whereas upon incorporation of OMMT and Al(OH){sub 3}, the water barrier properties reduced even further in the developed bio-nanocomposites. The flexural strength of the bio-nanocomposites also showed improved mechanical and dimensional stability. Synergistic effects of OMMT and Al(OH){sub 3} were observed in enhancing the aforementioned physico-mechanical properties. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies revealed microstructural details of developed samples. Similarly, the thermo-gravimetric analysis and linear burning rate studies of Al(OH){sub 3 }treated bio-nanocomposite materials revealed enhanced thermal resistance and reduced flammability respectively compared to both pristine woven jute fabric and fabrics treated with PLA alone or those without Al(OH){sub 3}. From the above results it can safely be said that the bio-nanocomposite material can be a prospective candidate for development of flame retardant biopackaging.

OSTI ID:
22788030
Journal Information:
Journal of Polymers and the Environment, Journal Name: Journal of Polymers and the Environment Journal Issue: 8 Vol. 26; ISSN 1566-2543
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English