Haule, L. V (2015), “Investigation into the Humidity Dependence Glass Transition of Cellulosic Fibres”. The 10th Annual Sida Regional Collaboration Conference”,8th -10th July, 2015, Maputo, Mozambique
The glass transition temperature at different relative humidity for cotton, lyocell and viscose fibres was investigated by Differential Scanning Calorimetric (DSC) technique. The relationship between glass transition temperature and moisture content of the materials was investigated by using the Fox -equation. It was observed and concluded that, the Fox-equation can be used to determine non-water-accessible fraction in materials, which may be equal to crystalline fraction. Taking into account crystallinity effects in cellulosic materials, the Fox- equation can well be used for quantifying the relationship between glass transition temperature and moisture content for all materials. It was found that, the glass transition of each of the investigated material in dry state was above 200°C.
Furthermore, investigations were carried out to compare the performance of large volume stainless steel pans with low volume aluminium pans used for holding the samples. It was observed that, the aluminium pans give a better heat signal, besides lower costs, when compared to large volume stainless steel pans. The challenges related to the use of the two types of pan and ways to overcome the challenges has been recommended.
Tanzania Gatsby Trust, Lenzing Fibers