Comparison of Various Chemical Treatments Efficiency in Relation to the Properties of Flax, Hemp Fibers and Cotton trichomes

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to chemically modify the plant fiber surface. Hemp, flax fibers and cotton trichomes were subject of surface treatments using silanization, acetylation, benzoylation, and mercerization processes. The fiber properties were evaluated with the use of fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), wide-angle X-ray analysis (WAXS) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Additionally, humidity and color of the modified fibers were evaluated. Chemical treatment of the plant fibers reduced their hydrophilic nature, increased the moisture resistance, and improved their thermal stability. In all the cases the silanization process proved to be the most effective method of improving fiber thermal stability and moisture resistance, yet mercerization and benzoylation methods offered satisfying results as well.