Rapid Synthesis of MMA Grafted Pine Needles Using Microwave Radiation

Cellulose-graft-poly (methylacrylate) copolymers were prepared by microwave assisted free radical polymerization to develop an efficient rapid way to alter the surface properties of the cellulosic fibers. The effect of microwave radiation doses, ratio of monomer, solvent and initiator concentrations were determined to get the highest percentage of grafting. The graft copolymers were characterized by FTIR and SEM studies. The results clearly demonstrate that graft polymerization successfully occurred onto the cellulose backbone. The cellulose-graft-poly (methylacrylate) copolymers have been found to be more water- and moisture-resistant as well as also revealing enhanced chemical and thermal resistance.