Abstract
In this research, alkali treated zallaca fibre reinforced with high density polyethylene (HDPE) composites are subjected to water immersion tests in order to study the dimensional changes and flexural properties of composites. Composites were frabricated using compression molding method with zallaca fiber content of 30% vt. Composite specimens were immersed under three different solution included distilled water, sea water and acidic solutions for 2 months at room temperature. The highest dimensional changes was recorded for composite immersed in seawater followed by acidic solution and distilled water. The dimensional changes of Zallaca fibre reinforced HDPE in different solution were found to follow a Fickian behaviour. Alkali treated fiber composites after immersion has lower results both in dimensional changes and its slope than untreated fiber composites in different aquaeous environment. The severe degradations are observed by using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) that showed microcracks growth, and degradation of interfacial region between fiber and matrix. Flexural properties of composites decrease after immersion stage in different values.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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
