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ABSTRACT
A new type of natural fiber (Phragmites Australis) reinforced polypropylene (PP) composite was prepared by injection molding. Composites prepared by Maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene MAPP compatibilized and alkali treatment show good mechanical performance than virgin PP. In the case of MAPP treated, an increase in mechanical strength were obtained as compared with the virgin PP. A similar increase in tensile modulus(50%) and flexural modulus(17%) was observed. Similarly higher trends were observed with alkaline treated fibers reinforced PP composites. SEM analysis of the fractured specimens shows an improved adhesion between fiber and the matrix with the addition of MAPP and by alkali treatment. Thermal stability and melting behavior were studied using TGA and DSC. The fiber-matrix morphology of the impact fractured samples was also examined using scanning electron microscopy which shows better compatibility and dispersion between the fiber and the matrix.
KEYWORDS: Natural Fiber, PP, MAPP, Alkali Treatment.
INTRODUCTION
In recent years there has been a fast growth in using natural fibers as reinforcements in composite materials. Natural fibers can be a renewable and cheaper substitute for synthetic fibers such as glass and carbon, which are used as reinforcement in making structural components. Natural fibers have numerous advantages such as low cost, low density, high toughness and an easily available renewable resource. So many research works have been reported on natural fiber reinforced composite[1].
With higher fiber content to equivalent performance, and thereby reducing more polluting base polymer content. Due to light weight, the natural fiber composites improve fuel
efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions in automotive applications. Also gaining markets in marine, Building & Constuction and rigid packagings. Due to eco-friendly and Biodegradability characteristics of these natural Fibers, they are considered as strong candidates to replace conventional glass and carbon fibers[2].
Polypropylene (PP) chosen as matrix resin due to its low price, low density, good flex life and favorable mechanical properties. To enhance the adhesion between the fiber and the matrix, MAPP was used as a compatibilizer. Compatibilizers, which improves the adhesion and the nature of the interface between the filler and the matrix, have been used to enhance mechanical properties of reinforced plastics [3,4,5]. Among the common natural fibers used as reinforcement for making of composites, a new type of fiber offers...