The Tensile and Flexural Properties of Treated and Untreated Sisal Fibre-Epoxy Resin Composites

Published ArticleThe influence of chemical treatment of sisal fibres through the subsequent processes of mercerisation (alkali treatment), then silane treatment and eventually acid hydrolysis on the fibres were investigated. The effect of the treated fibres on the tensile and flexural properties of their composites with epoxy resin were also studied. Scanning electron microscopy examination of the treated and untreated fibres showed that the subsequent processes of chemical treatment enhanced the removal of surface impurities and therefore increased the roughness of the fibre surfaces. It was concluded that this would avail an increased surface area on the fibre for interlocking with matrices and would therefore enhance adhesion of the two. Consistent to this conclusion, subsequent testing of treated fibre reinforced composites gave rise to higher values of tensile and flexural strength and toughness than the untreated fibre reinforced composites

A Review Of The State Of Research And Utilization Of Biomaterials In The Manufacture Of Composite Materials Todate

ArticleOver the last four decades composite materials, plastics and ceramics have been the dominant emerging materials. The volume and number of applications of composite materials has grown steadily, penetrating and gaining acceptance in new markets. Modern composite materials constitute a significant proportion of the engineered materials market, ranging from everyday products to sophisticated niche applications. While composites have already proven their worth as weight saving materials, the current challenge is to make them cost effective. This paper presents review on the worldwide state of research of biomaterials and their utilization in the manufacture of composite materials