Evaluation of reaction factors for deposition of silica (SiO2) nanoparticles on cellulose fibers

This study aimed to evaluate reaction conditions for deposition of SiO2 nanoparticles on the surface of cellulose fibers and their influence on moisture adsorption of the hybrid organic–inorganic material formed. SiO2 nanoparticle deposition was carried out with the sol–gel process testing four reaction times (2, 12, 18, and 24 h) and three contents of the tetraethyl-orthosilicate (TEOS) precursor (1.9, 4.2 and 8.4 g g−1 of cellulose fiber). Modification time and TEOS content directly influence the amount of Si deposited on the fiber surface, nanoparticle diameter distribution, thermal stability, and resistance to moisture adsorption. There is a tendency of slight increase of nanoparticle size and the amount of Si deposited with increasing reaction time. SiO2 nanoparticles were bonded on the surface of the cellulose fibers and are able to improve thermal stability of the material, increasing onset degradation temperature. The moisture adsorption capacity of the modified cellulose fiber was reduced up to 50%.