FTIR spectra and physico-chemical behavior of vinyl ester participated transesterification and curing of jute

In this article we report the transesterification of jute with n-Butylacryl ate (BA) under appropriate condition using NaOH, Pyridine (Py), and a Pyrid ine-acetone mixture as a catalyst. The modified vinylog jute was subsequent ly cured with benzoylperoxide (BPO) in acetone at 50 - 60 degreesC. The par ent and chemically modified jute were characterized by FTIR spectra. The pe rcent moisture regain, mechanical strength, and behavior to common chemical reagents of the parent and modified fibers have also been tested. Transest erification and curing of jute lowered the percentage of moisture regain, i mparted mechanical strength, and resistance to common chemical reagents. (C ) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.