Synergistic Modification of Cellulose Fibers With Graphene Oxide and Titanate Coupling Agent for Enhanced Natural Rubber Composites

ABSTRACT Natural rubber (NR) requires reinforcement to overcome its inherent mechanical deficiencies, though conventional fillers face sustainability challenges. This study innovatively modifies cellulose fiber (CF)—a renewable resource—through synergistic treatment with graphene oxide (GO) and titanate coupling agent 201 (TCA201), aiming to enhance NR composite performance. Optimal results emerged at a 3:1 TCA201/CF ratio (TCA‐CF4), where TCA201/GO co‐modification (TCA‐CFG) demonstrated significant improvements: an 86.7% reduction in ΔG′, a 44.0% lower friction coefficient, alongside a 40.6% increased elongation at break and a 32.58% enhanced wet‐skid resistance versus unmodified CF composites. This dual‐modification strategy effectively addresses dispersion and interfacial bonding issues, offering an eco‐friendly approach for high‐performance NR composites.