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In this study, crystalline cellulose was prepared through hydrolysis of jute fiber and was used as reinforcement of gelatin-based biocomposite film. The effects of crystalline celluloses loading on the morphology, mechanical properties and water sensitivity of the biocomposite were investigated by means of Scanning electron microscopy, tensile strength testing and water absorption testing. The developed biocomposite film showed homogeneous dispersion of crystalline celluloses within the gelatin matrix and strong interfacial adherence between matrix and reinforcement. A significant increase in tensile strength and E Modulus was also found (tensile strength was 25.4 MPa for pure gelatin and 48.2 MPa for 2% crystalline celluloses/gelatin film at 45% relative humidity), which was further induced by gamma radiation. The resulting biocomposite film also showed a higher water resistance and excellent biocompatibility. Therefore, crystalline celluloses played an important role in improving the mechanical properties as well as water resistance of the biocomposite film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential of flax fabric in the production of ‘green’ composites based on polypropylene (PP) was evaluated. The laminate composites were prepared by compression molding of flax fabric (with and without treatment) and PP films (using different formulations of PP). The morphology and crystallization of the PP/flax composites were characterized using scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry. The mechanical performance of the composites was also evaluated. The results demonstrate that fiber treatment and PP formulation play important roles on the performance of composites. This study proved that the addition of the coupling agent maleic anhydride grafted PP to the composites improves the interfacial adhesion between hydrophilic flax fibers and the hydrophobic PP matrix and thus the mechanical properties. The combination of the coupling agent and reactive additive provides superior strength, modulus and brings further fire resistance to the PP/flax composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]