Oligoether grafting on cellulose microfibers for dispersion in poly(propylene glycol) and fabrication of reinforced polyurethane composite

Application of cellulose microfibers as a reinforcing agent for high-performance polyurethane composites is rarely mentioned because the inherent hydrophilicity combined with adverse aspect ratio fibers cause difficulties in dispersion within and compatibility polymer matrix. Here, we propose feasible approach to graft oligoethers synthesized by ring-opening polymerization heterogeneous reaction microfiber surface. The oligomers composed ether linkages flexible hydroxyl groups provide good dispersity poly(propylene glycol) potential physical chemical cross-linking points isocyanates form interfacial adhesion between Consequently, tensile properties viscoelasticity oligomer-grafted cellulose-filled composite were enhanced compared those neat elastomer containing pristine microfibers. This reinforcement effect attributed natural stiffness fiber bundles network generated grafted on