Abstract
Polymeric composites consisting of cellulose and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) are prepared by coagulation/bulk polymerization method. Scanning electron microscopy and thermal gravimetric analysis are used to investigate the homogeneity and the heat-induced water loss of the composites, respectively. The water absorbed in the composites has strong hydrogen bonding with the polymer chains, as determined by differential scanning calorimetry. The mechanical and structural properties of the composites vary reversibly when the composites are applied into specifically explored wet-dry cycles, which are comprehensively measured by dynamic mechanic analysis, wide-angle X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared. It is unprecedented to explore the cellulose-PAA composites as a mechanical adaptive material. The cellulose and the PAA chemically react with each other. Most of the cellulose content remains in amorphous state. Thus, the water molecules can diffuse into the composites, leading to the wet-dry mechanical adaptability of the composites.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 675-681 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Journal of Applied Polymer Science |
Volume | 127 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 5 Jan 2013 |
Keywords
- cellulose
- composites
- hydrogen bonding
- mechanically adaptive
- wet-dry
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Chemistry
- Surfaces, Coatings and Films
- Polymers and Plastics
- Materials Chemistry