The Effect of Benzoylation on the Fine Structure of Jute

Abstract

Jute yarns were partially modified by benzoylation, under and without tension, to three low benzoyl contents, averaging from 10.01 to 45.32% to decrease the crystallinity, but retaining the fibrous structure and other desirable properties. The crystalline structure of jute was influenced by the benzoyl content but unaffected by tensile forces on the yarn during benzoylation. Modified yarns showed decreased crystallinity after a certain degree of substitution. The higher extent of benzoylation caused rapid decrystallization. This is in corroboration of the fact that with the increased esterification after 11.6% benzoyl content, the loss of strength of jute increased progressively.