Enhancement of Mechanical, Physiochemical and Water Resistance Properties of TiO2-Coated Jute Fibers: Effects of Gamma Irradiation, Chemical Treatments and Crystallinity

Abstract

This study introduces a novel, synergistic surface modification approach combining peracetic acid (PAA) treatment, TiO₂ nanoparticle coating, and gamma irradiation to significantly enhance jute fibers' mechanical strength, surface morphology, crystallinity, and water resistance. Integrating these three unique methods enables profound structural alteration and surface functionalization, resulting in a more hydrophobic, durable, and mechanically robust fiber. The strategic sequence of treatments promotes adequate TiO₂ adhesion, fiber densification, and improved fiber matrix compatibility. This approach addresses critical limitations in raw jute fiber performance and offers a scalable path forward for bio-based composite development in packaging, textiles, and other industrial applications. Raw jute fibers exhibited low breaking force and high water absorption. TiO₂ coating improved these properties, with further enhancements observed upon gamma irradiation at 3 kGy. The most significant improvements were the chemical treatment to remove lignin and hemicellulose (cellulose JF) and per-acetic acid (PAA) treatment, combined with TiO₂ coating and gamma irradiation. PAA-treated fibers showed the highest breaking force (492.23 N, a 112% increase compared to raw fibers), tensile strength (169.85% increase), elastic modulus (237.26% increase), and toughness (116% increase). These fibers also exhibited the lowest moisture content (3.86%, a 67.54% reduction), moisture regain (4.01%, a 70.24% reduction), and water absorption (102.26%, a 52.92% reduction), along with the highest water contact angle (86.25°, a 117.51% increase). SEM analysis revealed that PAA treatment resulted in a more compact and uniform fiber structure, promoting better TiO₂ adhesion and mitigating some micro-cracking induced by gamma radiation. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of TiO₂ and indicated significant structural changes, especially with PAA treatment. Crystallinity also increased with each treatment step, reaching a maximum of 83.53% for the PAA-treated fibers. These findings demonstrate the synergistic effects of TiO₂ coating, gamma irradiation, and chemical treatments in enhancing the properties of jute fibers for high-performance applications.