Spinning Carbon Fiber Precursors from 1-Butyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride Cellulose Solutions

Author

Rhea J. Gelderloos-Sammons, University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Date of Award

8-2007

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Major

Chemical Engineering

Major Professor

John R. Collier

Committee Members

Billie Collier, Simioan Petrovan, Tim Rials, Joseph Spruiell

Abstract

Cellulose is an abundant natural renewable polymer that is used in the production of many materials. However, limited processibility and reduced solubility have restricted its use in fibers, films, and other products. Ionic liquids (IL) show promise as a new class of cellulose solvents.

The primary goal of this research was to spin highly oriented and highly crystalline cellulose fibers from an IL solution. These fibers, in addition to their environmentally advantageous processing, have potential as precursors for carbon fibers. The IL selected for this study was 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, ([C₄mim]Cl). An elongational flow spinning technique was used to induce molecular orientation in the spinneret thus producing highly oriented, highly crystalline fibers. The effect of spinning conditions on fiber properties was determined. One prime consideration for carbon fiber precursors is the degree and size of defects. The elongational flow imposition of orientation inside the hyperbolic dies was especially effective.

Recommended Citation

Gelderloos-Sammons, Rhea J., "Spinning Carbon Fiber Precursors from 1-Butyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride Cellulose Solutions. " PhD diss., University of Tennessee, 2007.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_graddiss/174