Effect of Nanoclay Particle Infusion on Thermal Properties of Selected Untreated and Mercerized Plant Fibers

Abstract

The objective of this work is to improve the thermal properties of natural fibers by infusing thermally stable alumina-silicate clay nanoparticle into the fibers by physical infusion method. Four commonly used natural fibers were selected, namely, banana, coir, kenaf, and sisal fibers. Nanoclay particles were infused into these fibers at untreated and mercerized (NaOH-treated) stages. The distribution of nanoclay on fiber surface is examined by using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Nanoclay distribution is better in NaOH-treated fiber when compared with untreated fiber. Thermal properties such as mass loss, thermal decomposition, and flame retardance was evaluated for all fiber series. Thermal degradation kinetics of untreated and treated fiber series is examined by using Coats-Redfern method. The outcome of the result shows that the thermal properties of nanoclay infusion in NaOH-treated fibers are fairly consistent across all types of tested fibers. Nanoclay infusion into the fibers improved mass gain, decomposition, and flame retardance properties.

Keywords

• natural fibers
• surface treatments
• nanoclay
• thermal properties
• decomposition
• degradation kinetics