Journal of Composites Science

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19 pages, 5082 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Plasma-Enhanced Alginate Pre-Treatment of Short Flax Fibers for Improved Thermo-Mechanical Properties of PLA Composites

by Ghane Moradkhani, Jacopo Profili, Alex Destrieux, Mathieu Robert, Gaétan Laroche, Saïd Elkoun, Frej Mighri and Pascal Y. Vuillaume

J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(3), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8030106 - 18 Mar 2024

Viewed by 863

Abstract

This research centered on enhancing the mechanical properties of sustainable composite materials made from short flax fibers. Challenges associated with fiber–matrix adhesion and moisture absorption were systematically addressed. A water–alginate pre-treatment, combined with plasma modification, was employed to stabilize the fibers, ensuring their [...] Read more.

This research centered on enhancing the mechanical properties of sustainable composite materials made from short flax fibers. Challenges associated with fiber–matrix adhesion and moisture absorption were systematically addressed. A water–alginate pre-treatment, combined with plasma modification, was employed to stabilize the fibers, ensuring their optimal preparation and improved compatibility with biopolymers. A thorough investigation of the effect of the plasma modulation using a duty cycle (DC) was conducted, and extensive physicochemical and mechanical analyses were performed. These efforts revealed conditions that preserved fiber integrity while significantly improving surface characteristics. Techniques such as optical emission spectroscopy (OES), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) were utilized, providing a comprehensive understanding of the transformations induced by the plasma treatment. The findings underscored the critical role of alginate and precise plasma settings in enhancing the mechanical properties of the composites. Ultimately, this study made a substantial contribution to the field of eco-friendly materials, showcasing the potential of short flax fibers in sustainable composite applications and setting the stage for future advancements in this area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)

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22 pages, 12402 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tannins as Biobased Molecules for Surface Treatments of Flax Wrapped Rovings for Epoxy/Flax Fabrics Biocomposites: Influence on Mechanical Properties through a Multi-Scale Approach

by Khouloud Tilouche-Guerdelli, Clément Lacoste, Didier Perrin, Pierre-Jacques Liotier, Pierre Ouagne, Jacopo Tirillò, Fabrizio Sarasini and Anne Bergeret

J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(2), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8020075 - 13 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1306

Abstract

The present study examined the effect of biobased molecules grafted onto wrapped flax rovings on the mechanical properties of fabrics designed for epoxy-based biocomposites, aiming to optimize fiber/matrix adhesion. Biobased solutions, such as tannins from quebracho, were used to treat wrapped flax rovings [...] Read more.

The present study examined the effect of biobased molecules grafted onto wrapped flax rovings on the mechanical properties of fabrics designed for epoxy-based biocomposites, aiming to optimize fiber/matrix adhesion. Biobased solutions, such as tannins from quebracho, were used to treat wrapped flax rovings in comparison to a non-biobased aminosilane solution used as a reference. The chemical treatment is performed using an innovative lab-scale impregnation line. The influence of the solution concentration has been investigated. SEM-EDX and FT-IR confirmed the grafting efficiency of molecules on wrapped rovings. Plain and 5-harness satin fabrics were then manufactured at lab scale with the resulting functionalized rovings. Tensile tests were carried out on rovings and on fabrics. A concentration of 1% silane is sufficient to improve the mechanical properties of rovings and fabrics. The addition of NaOH to tannins strengthens flax fiber rovings more than tannins alone, and the weave pattern influences mechanical performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)

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17 pages, 3947 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polyamide Electrospun Nanofibers Functionalized with Silica and Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles for Efficient Dye Removal

by Safaa Saleh, Ahmed Salama, Ola M. Awad, Roberto De Santis, Vincenzo Guarino and Emad Tolba

J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(2), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8020059 - 04 Feb 2024

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Abstract

In this work, novel multifunctional electrospun nanofibrous membranes made of polyamide (PA6) and loaded with silica (SiO₂) and/or titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles were fabricated. SiO₂ NPs were first prepared and then characterized by TEM, FE-SEM, and FTIR, and [...] Read more.

In this work, novel multifunctional electrospun nanofibrous membranes made of polyamide (PA6) and loaded with silica (SiO₂) and/or titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles were fabricated. SiO₂ NPs were first prepared and then characterized by TEM, FE-SEM, and FTIR, and by using XRD techniques, confirming the formation of cristobalite tetragonal crystals with high purity. Different nanofibrous mats, loaded with SiO₂ NPs, TiO₂ NPs, or both SiO₂ and TiO₂ NPs, were investigated. Morphological studies indicated that SiO₂ and TiO₂ nanoparticles tend to be arranged along the fiber surface, also promoting the formation of anatase nanorods when they are mixed into the nanofibers. In this last scenario, mechanical tests have demonstrated that the presence of SiO₂ contributed to balancing the mechanical response of fibers that are negatively affected by the presence of TiO₂ NPs—as confirmed by tensile tests. More interestingly, the presence of SiO₂ did not negatively affect the antibacterial response against different bacteria populations (i.e., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Candida albicans), which is mainly ascribable to the presence of TiO₂ particles. Accordingly, the TiO₂- and TiO₂/SiO₂-loaded fibers showed higher methylene blue (MB) absorption values—i.e., 26 mg/g and 27 mg/g—respectively, compared to the SiO₂-loaded fibers (23 mg/g), with kinetics in good agreement with the second-order kinetic model. The obtained findings pave the way for the formation of novel antibacterial membranes with a promising use in water purification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)

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15 pages, 26766 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Alkaline Pretreatment of Waste Nutshell for Use in Particulate Biocomposites

by Filip Brleković, Katarina Mužina and Stanislav Kurajica

J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8010026 - 11 Jan 2024

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Abstract

The aim of this work was to determine how different types of alkaline pretreatment influence the properties of waste almond and hazelnut nutshell, as well as their compatibility with model inorganic geopolymer matrixes for the formation of biocomposites with potential use in civil [...] Read more.

The aim of this work was to determine how different types of alkaline pretreatment influence the properties of waste almond and hazelnut nutshell, as well as their compatibility with model inorganic geopolymer matrixes for the formation of biocomposites with potential use in civil engineering. For alkaline pretreatment, 3, 6 and 9% NaOH water solutions and milk of lime were used under different temperature and time conditions. The rise in the crystallinity index was confirmed by X-ray powder diffraction analysis, while the corroboration of the removal of amorphous and undesirable components was demonstrated through Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the pretreatments was confirmed via simultaneous differential thermal and thermogravimetric analysis, and the positive change in the morphology of the surface of the waste nutshell (WN) and the deposition of the desired phases was established using scanning electron microscopy. Surface free energy and adhesion parameters were calculated using the Owens, Wendt, Rabel and Kaelble method for WN as fillers and geopolymers as model novel inorganic binders. This research indicates that the 6% NaOH treatment is the optimal pretreatment process for preparing WN as the filler in combination with potassium and metakaolin geopolymer that has been cured at room temperature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)

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14 pages, 4265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Do 3D Printing Parameters Affect the Dielectric and Mechanical Performance of Polylactic Acid–Cellulose Acetate Polymer Blends?

by Morgan Lecoublet, Mohamed Ragoubi, Leonel Billy Kenfack, Nathalie Leblanc and Ahmed Koubaa

J. Compos. Sci. 2023, 7(12), 492; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs7120492 - 28 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1251

Abstract

Three-dimensional printing is a prototyping technique that is widely used in various fields, such as the electrical sector, to produce specific dielectric objects. Our study explores the mechanical and dielectric behavior of polylactic acid (PLA) and plasticized cellulose acetate (CA) blends manufactured via [...] Read more.

Three-dimensional printing is a prototyping technique that is widely used in various fields, such as the electrical sector, to produce specific dielectric objects. Our study explores the mechanical and dielectric behavior of polylactic acid (PLA) and plasticized cellulose acetate (CA) blends manufactured via Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF). A preliminary optimization of 3D printing parameters showed that a print speed of 30 mm·s⁻¹ and a print temperature of 215 °C provided the best compromise between print quality and processing time. The dielectric properties were very sensitive to the three main parameters (CA content W_CA, infill ratio, and layer thickness). A Taguchi L9 3^3 experimental design revealed that the infill ratio and W_CA were the main parameters influencing dielectric properties. Increasing the infill ratio and W_CA increased the dielectric constant ε′ and electrical conductivity σ_AC. It would, therefore, be possible to promote the integration of CA in the dielectric domain through 3D printing while counterbalancing its greater polarity by reducing the infill ratio. The dielectric findings are promising for an electrical insulation application. Furthermore, the mechanical findings obtained through dynamic mechanical analysis are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)

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14 pages, 10673 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanical Properties of α-Chitin and Chitosan Biocomposite: A Molecular Dynamic Study

by Mohammad Salavati

J. Compos. Sci. 2023, 7(11), 464; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs7110464 - 06 Nov 2023

Viewed by 1406

Abstract

This study investigates the mechanical properties of α-chitin and chitosan biocomposites using molecular dynamics (MD) and stress–strain analyses under uniaxial tensile loading in an aqueous environment. Our models, validated against experimental data, show that α-chitin has a higher directional elastic modulus of 51.76 [...] Read more.

This study investigates the mechanical properties of α-chitin and chitosan biocomposites using molecular dynamics (MD) and stress–strain analyses under uniaxial tensile loading in an aqueous environment. Our models, validated against experimental data, show that α-chitin has a higher directional elastic modulus of 51.76 GPa in the x and 39.76 GPa in the y directions compared to its chitosan biocomposite, with 31.66 GPa and 26.00 GPa in the same directions, demonstrating distinct mechanical behaviors between α-chitin and the biocomposite. The greater mechanical stiffness of α-chitin can be attributed to its highly crystalline molecular structure, offering potential advantages for applications requiring load-bearing capabilities. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing these materials for specialized applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)

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Review

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29 pages, 4009 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Biomass Wood Ash in Alkali-Activated Materials: Treatment, Application, and Outlook

by Yiying Du, Ina Pundienė, Jolanta Pranckevičienė, Modestas Kligys, Giedrius Girskas and Aleksandrs Korjakins

J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(5), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8050161 - 25 Apr 2024

Viewed by 381

Abstract

The utilisation of Portland cement has aroused tremendous concerns owing to its production exerting a lot of pressure on the environment. Alternative eco-binders have been developed to replace it, among which alkali-activated materials (AAMs) have drawn great attention, especially due to the possibility [...] Read more.

The utilisation of Portland cement has aroused tremendous concerns owing to its production exerting a lot of pressure on the environment. Alternative eco-binders have been developed to replace it, among which alkali-activated materials (AAMs) have drawn great attention, especially due to the possibility of encompassing industrial and agricultural waste, which significantly improves the sustainability and cost-efficiency of the material. Biomass wood ash (BWA) is a by-product generated from power plants and, along with the advocation for biomass fuel as a renewable energy resource, there have been increasing applications of BWA in building and construction materials. This review examines the use of BWA as a precursor source in AAMs. Due to its low chemical and hydraulic reactivity, more active binary precursors are usually introduced to guarantee mechanical properties. Whereas the increment of BWA content can have a negative influence on material strength development, it is still a promising and feasible material, and new approaches should be developed to improve the effectiveness of its utilisation. Currently, study of BWA-based AAMs is still in the beginning stages and more research is needed to investigate the effects of BWA characteristics on the property evolution of AAMs, focusing on the durability and analysis of eco-efficiency. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the characterisation of BWA and its potential applications in AAMs, and meanwhile, based on the analysis of present research trends, proposes some prospective directions for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)

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24 pages, 1658 KiB

Open AccessReview

Agro-Food Waste Valorization for Sustainable Bio-Based Packaging

by Luana de S. C. Carnaval, Amit K. Jaiswal and Swarna Jaiswal

J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(2), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8020041 - 24 Jan 2024

Viewed by 2234

Abstract

In recent years, the increase in the generation of agro-food processing waste, coupled with uncontrolled disposal and inefficient recovery methods, has raised concerns among society, industries, and the research community. This issue is compounded by the accumulation of conventional synthetic packaging. Owing to [...] Read more.

In recent years, the increase in the generation of agro-food processing waste, coupled with uncontrolled disposal and inefficient recovery methods, has raised concerns among society, industries, and the research community. This issue is compounded by the accumulation of conventional synthetic packaging. Owing to their significant environmental and economic impacts, the development of sustainable, biocompatible, and biodegradable materials has become an urgent target. In this context, research efforts have been directed toward developing new packaging materials based on renewable sources, such as agro-food waste, contributing to the circular economy concept. However, despite significant advances, novel agro-food-waste-based packaging solutions still largely remain at a laboratory scale. This situation highlights the urgent need for further understanding and thorough investigation into how to upscale these products, thereby promoting engagement, investment, and awareness across various fields. This review aims to discuss the current advances in food packaging development using agro-food waste. It covers the main agro-food wastes and by-products currently recovered for sustainable packaging systems through various approaches, such as the extraction of valuable compounds or waste treatments for incorporation into packaging materials, techniques for their valorization, and recent applications of agro-food waste materials in films and coatings. It also addresses the toxicological and safety approaches, challenges, and future perspectives. After an extensive review, we conclude that current research faces challenges in transitioning novel findings to commercial scale, primarily due to safety factors, high production costs, performance deficits, legislative ambiguities, lack of consumer awareness, and inadequate governmental regulations. Consequently, significant investments in research and development appear to be mandatory in the coming years, aiming for optimized, safe, and cost-effective solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)

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14 pages, 1589 KiB

Open AccessReview

Bio-Oil-Based Epoxy Resins from Thermochemical Processing of Sustainable Resources: A Short Review

by Philip Agbo, Abhijeet Mali, Dongyang Deng and Lifeng Zhang

J. Compos. Sci. 2023, 7(9), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs7090374 - 06 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2482

Abstract

Epoxy is the most prevalent thermosetting resin in the field of polymer composite materials. There has been a growing interest in the development of bio-based epoxy resins as a sustainable alternative to conventional petrochemical epoxy resins. Advances in this field in recent years [...] Read more.

Epoxy is the most prevalent thermosetting resin in the field of polymer composite materials. There has been a growing interest in the development of bio-based epoxy resins as a sustainable alternative to conventional petrochemical epoxy resins. Advances in this field in recent years have included the use of various renewable resources, such as vegetable oils, lignin, and sugars, as direct precursors to produce bio-based epoxy resins. In the meantime, bio-oils have been produced via the decomposition of biomass through thermochemical conversion and mainly being used as renewable liquid fuels. It is noteworthy that bio-oils can be used as a sustainable resource to produce epoxy resins. This review addresses research progress in producing bio-oil-based epoxy resins from thermochemical processing techniques including organic solvent liquefaction, fast pyrolysis, and hydrothermal liquefaction. The production of bio-oil from thermochemical processing and its use to inject sustainability into epoxy resins are discussed. Herein, we intend to provide an overall picture of current attempts in the research area of bio-oil-based epoxy resins, reveal their potential for sustainable epoxy resins, and stimulate research interests in green/renewable materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)

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