Surface modification of jute yarn by photografting of low-glass transition temperature monomers

Jute yarns were grafted with three types of vinyl monomers of different functionalities such as methyl acrylate (MA), ethyl acrylate (EA), and 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) with ultraviolet radiation. The graft copolymerization reaction between the cellulose of the jute fibers and the monomer and the chemical environment of the treated fibers were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The reduction of OH groups and increment of >C=O groups in treated jute yarns were observed. DSC,studies showed that the treated jute fibers were more thermally stable compared to the untreated one. The surface topography of the yarns was analyzed by an environmental scanning electron microscope. Different parameters, such as concentration of monomers and irradiation time, were optimized with the extent of mechanical properties such as tensile strength and elongation at break of the jute yarn. MA, EA, and HEA produced enhanced tensile strengths of 87, 78, and 85%, respectively. The monomers MA, EA, and HEA showed improved elongations at break of 118, 91, and 76%, respectively. The water uptake of treated and untreated jute yarns were studied. The maximum water uptake was observed of the grafted sample compared to the untreated jute yarn. The effects of additives such as urea on mechanical properties were also studied. (C) 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 87: 993-1000, 2003.