Abstract

SummaryThe use of lignocellulosic fibers as reinforcement in polymer composites has increased worldwide recently. Vegetal fibers have low cost and they are commonly available in Brazil. The curaua fibers in particular are of great importance for the development of the Amazon region. The mechanical behavior of the composites reinforced with fibers depends on the effectiveness of the transfer of the applied load by the matrix to the fibers, which is determined by the magnitude of the interfacial bonding between fiber/matrix phases. In this paper, curaua fibers were treated with 0.25–2% (w/v) NaOH solution under tensile loading to improve fiber‐matrix adhesion in curaua fibers/epoxy laminates. Composites with 40 vol.% curaua fibers were obtained. Maximum improvement in the composite properties was observed for those containing curaua fibers treated with 0.5% NaOH under tensile loading. Composites with good bending properties were obtained by using a simple, low cost and environmental friendly method for curaua treatment. This method employed low concentration of chemical solutions, which are neutralized during the process, and no need of heating.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.