Surface-Modlified Sisal Fiber-Reinforced Eco-Friendly Composites: Mechanical, Thermal, and Diffusion Studies

To improve the fiber/matrix interaction, sisal fibers were subjected to various chemical and physical modifications such as mercerization, heating at 100 degrees C, permanganate treatment, benzoylation, and silanization. Polyester composites were fabricated using compression molding. Tensile and flexural properties increased for every treated fiber-reinforced composites with a reduction in the impact strength. This is attributed to the improved interfacial adhesion between fiber and polyester matrix. An increase in thermal stability was observed for the treated fiber-reinforced composites especially at lower temperature. Significant reduction in water uptake occurred for the treated fiber-reinforced composites at 30 degrees C and 90 degrees C. Scanning electron micrograph studies have been used to substantiate the above observations. POLYM. COMPOS., 32:131-138, 2011. (C) 2010 Society of Plastics Engineers