THE IMPACT OF SURFACE TREATMENT ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF FLAX-BASED FIBER COMPOSITE

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of natural fibers, commonly used as cost-effective fillers in the plastic industry, as replacements for glass fibers in composite materials. Despite their advantages, these natural fibers possess a strong polar nature, causing compatibility issues with certain thermoplastic platforms, particularly aromatic compounds. Surface-level treatments, though not cost-effective, offer a solution to this issue. This research focuses on optimizing and qualifying two treatment methods, the acetyl method and stearic treatment, applied to two types of flax fibers: long and short. Examining variables such as temperature, treatment duration, and compound recovery, this study employed diffraction and gas chromatography techniques to evaluate treated and untreated fibers. Results revealed that both treatments effectively reduced non-crystalline segments within the fibers, altering surface topography. Notably, the acetyl method increased fiber surface energy, while the stearic treatment decreased it. These findings underscore the significant impact of the acetyl method and stearic treatment on modifying fiber properties, particularly surface characteristics and energy levels. The study sheds light on the potential applications of these treatments in enhancing the compatibility of natural fibers with thermoplastic platforms, despite their inherent polarity. Incorporating visuals depicting the treatment processes would further enrich the study’s authenticity and engagement, providing a tangible representation of the methods employed.