Synergistic effect of nanoTiO2 and nanoclay on mechanical, flame retardancy, UV stability, and antibacterial properties of wood polymer composites

Wood-polymer nanocomposite (WPNC) based on styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer (SAN), gamma-trimethoxy silyl propyl methacrylate-modified TiO2 nanoparticles, and nanoclay was prepared by impregnation. The flexural, tensile, and flame-retardant properties were improved. UV stability was evaluated by photo-induced weight loss, FTIR, loss in mechanical properties, and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that UV stability was maximum for wood sample treated with SAN/TiO2 (0.5 %)/nanoclay (0.5 %). The presence of TiO2 nanoparticles in WPNC-exhibited antibacterial activity.