Polymers and Polymer Composites

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF SISAL REINFORCED COMPOSITES IN RESPONSE TO WATER ABSORPTION

June 1, 2002 By: Rong M Z; Zhang M Q; Liu Y; Zhang Z W; Yang G C; Zeng H M Research article

Title: MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF SISAL REINFORCED COMPOSITES IN RESPONSE TO WATER ABSORPTION
Page Range: p.407-426
Author(s): Rong M Z; Zhang M Q; Liu Y; Zhang Z W; Yang G C; Zeng H M
File size: 254K
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Journal: Polymers and Polymer Composites
Issue Year: ppc
Volume: 10
Issue No: No. 6

Abstract
The water absorption behaviour of sisal and the mechanical properties of sisal fibre-reinforced epoxy composites aged in water, are discussed. The effect is examined of a series of fibre pretreatment techniques on the water resistance of sisal and its composites. These include mercerisation, acetylation, cyanoethylation, coupling agent treatment and thermal treatment. An evaluation of these treatments is included, and results show that the water absorption behaviour of sisal composites is controlled mainly by the fibre and the fibre/matrix interfacial properties. Modification of sisal fibres is shown to be necessary to retard water diffusion and enhance interfacial adhesion in order for natural fibre composites to be used in practical applications. 18 refs.


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