Chemical Surface Functionalization of Woven Kenaf Preforms Using Methyl Methacrylate and Methyl Acrylate Monomers
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56919/usci.2651.012Keywords:
2D Weaving, Graft copolymerization, kenaf preform, Thermal stabilityAbstract
This study investigated the surface modification of woven kenaf preforms to overcome their inherent hydrophilicity and enhance their thermal and surface properties. Graft copolymerization was carried out using methyl methacrylate (MMA) and methyl acrylate (MA) through a Fenton’s reagent-initiated free radical process under a nitrogen atmosphere. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed the formation of ester linkages, evidenced by characteristic carbonyl absorption peaks at 1725 cm⁻¹. The grafting percentage and efficiency were 22% and 46.2% for MMA, and 21.7% and 45.1% for MA, respectively, indicating effective monomer incorporation onto the kenaf preform surface. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed enhanced thermal stability, with onset degradation temperatures increasing from 233.3°C for ungrafted kenaf to 275°C and 292°C for MMA- and MA-grafted samples, respectively. Similarly, the maximum degradation temperature increased from 275°C to 370°C and 365°C for MMA- and MA-grafted samples, respectively. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed increased surface roughness and a uniform polymer coating on the modified preform, indicating successful coverage. These findings demonstrate that graft copolymerization significantly improves the thermal stability and surface characteristics of woven kenaf preforms.
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