Specificity of Thermal Destruction of Nonwoven Mixture Systems Based on Bast and Viscose Fibers

Abstract

The research investigates the thermal behavior of mixed systems based on natural and artificial cellulose fibers used as precursors for carbon nonwoven materials. Flax and hemp fibers were employed as natural components; they were first chemically treated to remove impurities and enriched with alpha-cellulose. The structure, chemical composition, and mechanical properties of both natural and viscose fibers were studied. It was shown that fiber properties depend on the fiber production process history; natural fibers are characterized by a high content of impurities and exhibit high strength characteristics, whereas viscose fibers have greater deformation properties. The thermal behavior of blended compositions was investigated using TGA and DSC methods across a wide range of component ratios. Carbon yield values at 1000 °C were found to be lower for blended systems containing 10–40% by weight of bast fibers, with carbon yield increasing as the quantity of natural fibers increased. Thus, the composition of the cellulose composite affects carbon yield and thermal processes in the system. Using the Kissinger method, data were obtained on the value of the activation energy of thermal decomposition for various cellulose and composite systems. It was found that natural fiber systems have three-times higher activation energy than viscose fiber systems, indicating their greater thermal stability. Blends of natural and artificial fibers combine the benefits of both precursors, enabling the deliberate regulation of thermal behavior and carbon material yield. This approach opens up prospects for the creation of functional carbon materials used in various high-tech areas, including thermal insulation.