The Development of a Composite Based on Cellulose Fibres and Polyvinyl Alcohol in the Presence of Boric Acid

Boric acid was employed to improve the homogeneity and mechanical properties of a composite based on cellulose fibres and polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH). The influence of boric acid, under different pH values, on the mechanical properties cellulose fibres (handsheets) was investigated. The presence of the boric acid, under alkaline conditions, further improved the mechanical properties of the handsheets. A composite based on PVOH and cellulose fibres was prepared in the presence of boric acid and glycerol, a plasticizer. The employment of the boric acid, under alkaline conditions, was necessary to obtain a homogenous composite. The morphology of the final product was analysed by SEM, and their tensile properties were measured.