Influence of Chemical Surface Modifications on Mechanical Properties of Combretum dolichopetalum Fibre - High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Composites

Maximizing the use of natural fibres as ecofriendly materials in polymer composite applications reduces its threat posed to human through increased biomass in the environment. In this study, the effect of chemical surface modifications using acetic anhydride and sodium hydroxide solution on the mechanical properties of Combretum dolichopetalum fibre-HDPE composites was aimed to be investigated. Fibres were treated with 6 % acetic anhydride and 12 % NaOH solutions for 30 minutes at room temperature based on optimum treatment conditions after water retting extraction process, then, the composites were prepared. The mechanical properties (tensile strength, tensile modulus, flexural strength, flexural modulus, hardness and impact strength) of the C. dolichopetalum fibre reinforced HDPE matrix composites and scanning electron microscope analysis were studied. C. dolichopetalum fibre was not only effective as reinforcement of HDPE matrix but mercerization and acetylation of C. dolichopetalum fibre ultimately enhanced the mechanical properties of HDPE composites. Scanning electron microscope analysis revealed that HDPE matrix possess better adhesive interaction with acetylated and mercerized C. dolichopetalum fibre compared with untreated C. dolichopetalum fibre at ultimate tensile strength.