Effect of Novel Coupling Agent on the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Unidirectional Jute—Vinyl Ester Composites

Abstract

The interfacial bond strength can be optimized only when the relationship between the level of fiber—matrix adhesion and the mechanical and fracture behavior of composite is clearly understood. This study established the relationship of interfacial bond strength between 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) treated jute fiber and vinyl ester (VE) in the composites. Thermodynamic properties such as storage modulus, loss modulus, and tan δ were investigated, and mechanical properties of the composites such as tensile strength (TS) and bending strength (BS) were studied in the longitudinal direction of the jute yarn. To improve these properties, the surfaces of jute yarns were modified with HEMA. Treated jute yarns were used for composite preparation. Mechanical properties were recorded, and the values of TS and BS were 130 MPa and 225 MPa, respectively, and that of bending E-modulus was 10.2 GPa. BS and bending E-modulus were increased 70% and 45% compared to the untreated jute/VE composites, respectively. The storage modulus and loss modulus of the HEMA treated jute—VE composites were increased by 72% and 65% compared to the untreated jute—VE composites at 30°C respectively. The tan δ values of composites were found to be minimal compared to VE and untreated jute-VE composites. The chemical nature of the interfacial bond between jute and VE was monitored by Fourier transform infrated spectroscopy (FTIR) which showed that HEMA might react with VE. The tensile fracture surfaces were investigated by environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM). The results of ESEM showed an improved interfacial adhesion treated jute with VE.