The aim of this study is to determine the effect of alkali treatment on water absorption
and tensile properties of non-woven kenaf polyester composite. Kenaf fiber mat was treated with 2,
4 and 6% of different sodium hydroxide (NaOH) concentration. The composite was fabricated using
compression molding technique. It was found that treatment reduced the overall water uptake of
composites. The 6% treated fibre composite was greater in moisture resistance as compared to
untreated. The tensile strength of the composites was substantially improved after alkali treatment,
and it was similar with the tensile modulus