Abstract

Effect ofmonomer (EGDMA) on themechanical properties of jute fiber by using additives: Photocuring with UV radiation

Author(s): M.Z.I.Mollah,T.R.Choudhury, M.A.Khan, P.Ali, A.M.S.Chowdhury, AIMustafa

For the biodegradability of jute (Corchorus capsularis) in environmental awareness has given emphasis to develop the properties. The physico-mechanical properties of jute yarns were treated byEGDMAin alongwith photoinitiator (2%) and cured under UVradiation intensities.As the radiation- induced graft copolymerization is one of the most importantmethods tomodify natural polymers Concentration ofmonomer; soaking time and radiation intensity were optimized with respect to mechanical properties. The Photocuringmethod has enhanced tensile strength (TS factor Tf = 2), elongation at break factor, (Ef = 1.4) and polymer loading (20%) as affectedwith 5%EDGMA(5minutes soaking time). Urea (0.5 – 2%) was added to the opti-ecomized solution (5% EGDMA) where 1% Urea showed the best properties (PL = 2.4 %, Tf = 2.3). KMnO4 treated yarns produced the best results (PL = 29%, Tf = 2.6, Ef = 1.7) along with Urea (1%). This is a unique achievement in the sense that the mechanical properties of the jute yarns can be improved by curing of KMnO4 treated yarns followed by addition of additive (urea) rather than curing of jute yarnswithout pretreatment or any additive. Both KMnO4 and Urea are very cheap. This method of modification of the jute yarn appears to be economical.