Hierarchical thermoplastic biocomposites reinforced with flax fibres modified by xyloglucan and cellulose nanocrystals

This work is focused on the modification of interphase zone in short flax fibres / polypropylene (PP) composites by a bio-inspired called “nanostructuration” that uses adsorption biomass by-products, i.e. cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and xyloglucan (XG), to create hierarchical fibres. The wettability interfacial adhesion study reveals strong decrease polar character CNC modified fibres, hence increasing with PP. Moreover, combining XG/CNC interphases MAPP coupling agent enhances ultimate mechanical properties biocomposites higher tensile strength rupture, modifies failure mechanisms as revealed situ micro-mechanical SEM experiments. Bio-based inspired naturally occurring nanostructures open new path for development sustainable enhanced structural properties.