Publication: Effect of fiber surface treatments on the properties of kenaf fiber/polypropylene laminated composites
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Date
2025-08
Authors
Jesse, Ling Chee Wen
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Abstract
The increasing demand for sustainable and lightweight materials has driven significant interest in natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites. Kenaf fiber is a lignocellulosic material which offers an attractive alternative to synthetic fibers due to its abundance, low cost and biodegradability. However, its inherent hydrophilic nature and poor compatibility with hydrophobic polymer matrices like polypropylene (PP) often lead to weak interfacial adhesion which can limit the mechanical and physical properties of the composite products. This study investigated the effect of different concentration and soaking time of fiber surface treatments on the properties of kenaf fiber/polypropylene laminated composites. Different chemical treatments such as alkali (NaOH) treatment and benzoyl peroxide solution treatment were applied to kenaf fibers. The treated fibers were then used to fabricate laminated composites with polypropylene through a compression moulding technique. The fabricated composites were characterized for their mechanical properties (tensile and impact strength), thermal properties (DSC and TGA) and morphological features using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicated that both alkali and benzoyl peroxide treatments improved the interfacial adhesion between kenaf fibers and the PP matrix. This led to enhanced mechanical properties especially increased tensile and impact strength if compared to untreated fiber composites. Thermal analysis using DSC and TGA showed improvements in the thermal stability and crystallization behavior of the treated fiber composites. Morphological features observed through SEM analysis confirmed better fiber dispersion within the matrix and reduced fiber pull-out which is signifying improved interfacial bonding. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing the performance of kenaf fiber/polypropylene laminated composites for various engineering applications.