Speakers - 2026

Title: Structure-Property Relationship of Cellulosic Fibres

Abstract

The past decades have witnessed interest in the search for alternative to fossil origin materials. The search has been motivated by the realisation that fossil reserves are finite, energy intensive and their use poses serious environmental impact. The search for the alternative non fossil origin materials has resulted in the exploitation of plant based materials, which are renewable hence offering potentially zero greenhouse gas emissions. Cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) is phenolic based natural oil extracted from cashew nut processing plants. The oil consists of four monomeric components each differing in side chain saturation. Polymerisation of the crude CNSL is accomplished in two stages resulting in either resol or novellac resins. CNSL can be polymerised in acidic and alkaline media. The techniques applied to elucidate inherent characteristics are the Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) used to study curing and degradation characteristics of the resin. The results show that the CNSL exhibit one endothermic peak at 90 °C and the two exothermic peaks observed at 
205 °C, and 230 °C respectively. The endothermic peak is the loss of excess and molecular hydroxyl groups while the exothermic peak is the heat of reaction of the thermoset CNSL. Similar methods were applied on plant fibres, whereby the plant fibres namely sisal, hemp and jute exhibit endothermic peak at around 100 °C. The polymer, when in resin form can be polymerised in situ with plant fibres. The plant origin fibres and oils can be used to produce industrial components such automotive, aerospace materials, electrical and electronics components. The development of plant resourced materials can contribute to low environment impact while fulfilling the economic interest of industries.

The audience take away from presentation:
(i) They will take the following items:
Alternative to fossil origin materials which are renewable and biodegradable
(ii) The use of plant fibres
(iii) The use of plant origin oils
(iv) Light weight by product of plant origin materials