Abstract
The natural hydroxyapatite (HAp, activated at different temperatures)/cellulose composites have been prepared by using sonication method to improve the physical properties of the cellulose fibre. The molecular level interaction and the physical properties of the hydroxyapatite/cellulose composite are examined using FTIR, X-ray diffraction, SEM, and thermal analysis. The absorption bands at around 660 cm(-1) confirm the O-P-O bending vibration in the HAp/cellulose composites. There is a difference in the d-spacing of the HAp/cellulose composite, indicating that the HAp is reactive towards cellulose. SEM indicates that HAp could penetrate the cellulose network structure to form particles that is helpful to improve the mechanical properties of the cellulose. The porosities of HAp/cellulose composites decrease, and their compressive strength increase as compared to those of cellulose. Thermogravimetric analysis confirms the highest thermal stability of the prepared composites.