Radiation grafting on natural fibres: an easy way to increase the functionalities of textiles and composites
Résumé
Adding a chemical function to a substrate is an efficient way to endow it higher performances. The only way of functionalizing natural fibres is by modifying their surface. Radiation grafting by the means of ionizing rays is a sustainable way to reach a high level of performances, without adding additives like initiators.
A large range of molecules with unsaturated vinyl (double bond C=C) are now available and suitable for radiation grafting. According to the reactivity of the molecule, grafting can be induced by direct radiation (simultaneous grafting in presence of the substrate and of the molecule) or pre-irradiation (surface radicals of the substrate are turned into peroxides, owing to irradiation in the air, and thermally reactivated (80-100°C) at the moment of the grafting in presence of the molecule).
Since 2012, the authors have developed an advanced and continuous experience with the radiation grafting of fire-retardant molecules on natural fibres.
The grafting of natural fibres with repellent molecules is another project currently under development. These advancements and the suitable radiation conditions (dose, radiation pathway) as far as the grafting conditions (molecule, combination of molecules, concentration, grafting rate ...) to reach the related objectives will be presented.