Understanding nanostructure distribution of lignocellulosic wood fiber based biocomposites through scanning X-ray microdiffraction

Lignocellulosic based biocomposites are important for sustainable development. Our group recently developed a green in-situ polymerization of ɛ-caprolactone in lignocellulosic networks, which exhibit high mechanical performance and increased degradable rate in a controlled manner. However, the multiscale structure in our system, including micro/meso structure of fiber and polymer matrix is not completely understood. We hope through scanning X-ray microdiffraction we can identify the distribution of PCL inside/outside of the preserved wood cell, and determine the structural variations, such as crystallinity and crystal orientation, etc. We will conduct an ex-situ experiment to control the PCL content, fibrillation extent of wood fibers, and degradable conditions to understand the effects of structural variations. This research will be very important to comprehend the mechanical properties and degradability of the biocomposite samples for improved material design.