Mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of plasma functionalized sustainable carbon-reinforced biocomposite. *

Carbon-based nanomaterials are considered one of the most useful materials primarily due to their unique electrical, electronic and mechanical properties. However, Carbon obtained through pyrolysis of bio-based precursors is generally limited in its use due to their hydrophobic and inert surfaces. The nature of functional groups introduced across the surface of carbon materials is critical to the development of advanced materials for applications where surface-specific interactions or reactions determine performance.  Semicrysllaine carbon was synthesized from sustainable starch-based waste packaging material using a simple high-pressure/temperature pyrolysis reaction. Thus, obtained carbon was further modified using ultrasonication method. The surface energies of the biochar carbon were altered using low-temperature plasma treatment processes in presence of Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF6) gas. The carbon was treated at a chamber pressure of 0.2 Torr, constant flow of 5 ccm and Radio Frequency (RF) generated power of 150W. The carbon was treated for various durations of 5,10,15,20 and 30 minutes. Plasma-treated carbon was characterized via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) for surface binding energy changes and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for surface functionality changes. It was found that plasma treatment was effective in incorporating fluorine-related functionalities on the carbon surfaces. The surface-modified carbon will be effective in forming a good interface between reinforcement fillers and the host polymer matrix for composite application.