Structure and properties of cellulose/Fe2O3 nanocomposite fibers spun via an effective pathway

Nanocomposite fiber is one of the most fascinating materials with broad applications. In the present work, nanocomposite fibers were prepared by using a low-cost, simple, and green process as follows. Regenerated cellulose (RC) fibers were spun from cellulose dope in 7 wt % NaOH/12 wt % urea aqueous solution precooled to - 12 degrees C, and magnetic nanocomposite fibers were fabricated by introducing in situ synthesized iron oxide (Fe2O3) nanoparticles into the wet cellulose fibers spun via a small-scale pilot machine. The results from transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction showed that the magnetic Fe2O3 nanoparticles with a mean diameter of 18 nm were uniformly dispersed in the cellulose matrix. The composite fibers exhibited a higher mechanical strength than RC fibers, as well as a strong capability to absorb UV rays, superparamagnetic properties, and a relatively high dielectric constant. FT-IR results indicated that there is a strong interaction between cellulose and Fe2O3 in the fibers, leading to the formation and stabilization of the novel magnetic materials. The nanocomposite fibers will be important for the development of functional fabrics and protective clothing for ultraviolet radiation or microwaves.