Influence of lignin modification on the mechanical properties of lignin/PEO blends
International Journal of Structural Integrity
ISSN: 1757-9864
Article publication date: 5 December 2016
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to focus on the investigation of mechanical and thermal properties of lignin/poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) blends, intended to be used as carbon fiber precursor.
Design/methodology/approach
Softwood kraft lignin was modified via esterification using phthalic anhydride and then blended with PEO. The final lignin/PEO ratios blends were (w/w) 20/80, 50/50 and 80/20 for both unmodified and modified lignin. The structural, thermal and mechanical properties of the blends were investigated by Fourier transform infrared, differential scanning calorimetry and tensile tests, respectively.
Findings
The results revealed that modified lignin/PEO blend (20/80) exhibited enhanced elongation.
Originality/value
The structural analysis as well as thermal and mechanical properties of the produced blends are clearly demonstrated.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The support from the EU FP7 Project “Functionalized Innovative Carbon Fibers Developed from Novel Precursors with Cost Efficiency and Tailored Properties” (FIBRALSPEC) under Grant Agreement No. 604248 is greatly acknowledged.
Citation
Anagnou, S.C., Milioni, E.G., Mpalias, C.S., Kartsonakis, I.A., Koumoulos, E.P. and Charitidis, C.A. (2016), "Influence of lignin modification on the mechanical properties of lignin/PEO blends", International Journal of Structural Integrity, Vol. 7 No. 6, pp. 762-772. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSI-11-2015-0057
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited