Influence of surface treatments in natural fibre reinforced composites

Abstract

There have been numerous endeavors to replace synthetic fibers with natural fibers in fiber-reinforced composites, due to increasing environmental alertness and diminution of oil assets. The information that natural fibers are existing inexpensively and in plenty, being biodegradable and low density, have driven many scientists throughout the world to reconnoiter their application potential in several industrial segments. Nevertheless, natural fibers also require some confines such as high moisture absorption and subsequent swelling and degradation, poor chemical and fire resistance, high dispersion of mechanical properties, poor interfacial interactions with polymeric matrices. Consequently, there is an enormous concern to modify the surface of natural fibers through many techniques, in order to overcome their intrinsic downsides and to effectively utilize these materials in different applications. The chemical treatment of fiber is intended at improving the adhesion between the fiber surface and the matrix. Modification in fiber surface results with increase in fiber strength. This study compares the result of different types of surface treatments of natural fibrous materials, chiefly Calotropis procera and Sisal fibers, on the mechanical properties of fiber composites. The application of surface treatments on fibrous materials can improve the compatibility with composite materials.