Esterified cellulose nanocrystals for reinforced epoxy nanocomposites

The surface of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) was successfully modified with methacryloyl chloride to create esterified CNCs (M/CNCs). The modification was confirmed by Fourier Transfer Infra-Red Spectroscopy, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Zeta potential measurement. With increased surface hydrophobicity, this modified CNC material exhibited improved compatibility with organic network. When used as a filler to be incorporated into a model epoxy resin, TEM results indicated that M/CNCs particles dispersed well in the epoxy network. It was observed that the inclusion of the M/CNCs had an impact upon the heat flow for the curing of the epoxy nanocomposite, leading to an improvement in the storage modulus when tested via dynamic mechanical analysis.

Automated summary

The surface of cellulose nanocrystals was successfully modified to improve its compatibility with organic network, and the modified particles dispersed well in the epoxy network. The inclusion of the modified cellulose nanocrystals had a positive impact on the curing process and storage modulus of the epoxy nanocomposite.