Phase, Chemical, Thermal, and Morphological Analyses of Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) Nanocomposites Reinforced with Jute Cellulose Nanofibers (CNFs)

In response to the growing demand for high-performance materials in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction, this study investigates the impact of jute cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) on the chemical, thermal, and morphological properties of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites. Jute CNFs were extracted using a chemo-mechanical method and incorporated into TPU through melt blending. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed notable changes in the chemical structure of the nanocomposites, including intensified O-H stretching vibrations and reduced C-H stretching vibrations upon the addition of 2 wt% and 4 wt% jute CNFs. Strong interfacial interactions between the jute CNFs and the TPU matrix were observed, particularly influencing the absorbance bands related to the -NH, C=O, and N-H groups. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis demonstrated enhanced crystallinity in the TPU nanocomposites, with new diffraction peaks and increased crystallite size correlating with higher jute CNF content. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) revealed a uniform dispersion of the jute CNFs within the TPU matrix, contributing to improved interfacial adhesion and enhanced structural integrity. Thermal analysis using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed an increase in the thermal stability, with the onset of degradation occurring at higher temperatures in the TPU/jute CNF nanocomposites. The glass transition temperature (T_g) and melting temperature (T_m) exhibited minor shifts, reflecting improved thermal performance. These findings suggest that the incorporation of jute CNFs significantly enhances the crystallinity, thermal stability, and structural organization of TPU, offering a sustainable approach for developing robust materials with potential applications in structural, corrosion-resistant, and high-performance fields.