I want to work with the most significant techniques to modify natural fibres due to apply it as a reinforcement of bionanocomposites, thus it early need to reduce the most unwanted hydrophilic nature of natural fibres by chemical modification. So which one is better for this particular task?
To reduce the hydrophilic nature of naturally available plant fibers more effectively, you can follow several methods. Here are some effective approaches:
1. Chemical treatment: Employing chemical agents can modify the surface chemistry of plant fibers and reduce their hydrophilic nature. Commonly used chemicals include silanes, epoxies, and other hydrophobic agents. These chemicals can form a protective layer on the fiber surface, making it less prone to water absorption.
2. Acetylation: Acetylation involves treating plant fibers with acetic anhydride or acetic acid. This process introduces acetyl groups to the fibers' cellulose structure, reducing their hydrophilicity and enhancing their hydrophobic properties.
3. Silane coupling agents: Silane coupling agents, such as organosilanes, can be used to modify the surface of plant fibers. These agents bond chemically with the fiber surface and can introduce hydrophobic groups, reducing water absorption.
4. Enzymatic treatment: Using enzymes like lipases or peroxidases, you can modify the chemical structure of plant fibers to make them less hydrophilic. Enzymatic treatments are often more environmentally friendly than harsh chemical treatments.
5. Plasma treatment: Plasma treatment involves exposing plant fibers to low-pressure plasma, which can alter the fiber surface and reduce its hydrophilicity. Plasma treatment is a clean and precise technique, suitable for various types of fibers.
6. Physical coating: Applying a physical coating to the fiber surface can effectively reduce hydrophilicity. Techniques like electrospinning or dip coating with hydrophobic materials can create a water-repellent layer on the fiber surface.
7. Blend with hydrophobic materials: Mixing plant fibers with hydrophobic materials like synthetic fibers or polymer resins can decrease the overall hydrophilic nature of the composite material.
8. Heat treatment: Controlled heating can modify the fiber structure and reduce hydrophilicity. However, excessive heat may damage the fibers, so temperature control is essential.
9. UV treatment: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can alter the surface chemistry of plant fibers and reduce their affinity for water. It is essential to optimize the UV exposure to prevent excessive degradation.
By controlling the -OH groups that's belongs to the structure of natural lignocellulosic fibers you can easily reduce the hydrophilic nature of plant fibers. And the easiest way to control the hydroxide groups is alkylation, acylation, salination, grafting, hydrolysis, mercerization, plasma treatment, heat treatment, blending, coating etc.
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