In the past decade, efficient ionic liquid solvents have been developed for a wide variety of biopolymers.  Additionally, ionic liquids have been shown to augment the interactions of micromaterials and nanomaterials (i.e., magnetic materials, clays, carbon nanotubes, et cetera) with polymeric materials.  Recently we have demonstrated ionic liquid-based methods, �Natural Fiber Welding�, by which functionalized composite materials are generated from fibrous biopolymer substrates.  Fiber welding processes leverage many of the advantageous properties of ionic liquids as solvents and compatibilization media.  A distinctive characteristic of fiber welding is the selective mobilization and restructuring of biopolymers to create composites that retain native material microstructures and mesostructures.  As ionic liquid solvents penetrate fiber surfaces, biopolymers are rendered open to chemical derivatization and hydrogen bonding networks are extended and reorganized.  Our presentation will pivot on analytical characterizations of welded fiber-matrix composites with integrated micro and nanomaterials.  In particular, we will disclose data that are focused on the identification and characterization of interfacial regions formed during processing.  Results feedback to inform the development of improved fiber welding processes and aid in the creation of composite materials with advanced functionalities.

Microscopic characterizations of fiber welded biocomposite materials

244th National Meeting (2012)

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