STUDY THE INFLUENCE OF TIME AND CONCENTRATION OF KOH CHEMICAL MODIFICATION ON THE FLEXURAL PROPERTIES OF SHORT COIR FIBER REINFORCED POLYESTER COMPOSITES

Author

Abstract
In this paper presents the flexural properties of composites made from natural fibers (Coir fibers) as reinforcing phase in polyester matrix. The chemical treated of fibers with KOH solution at different concentrations (1, 5, 10 % KOH) with different times (0.25, 1, 18, 72, 168, 240 Hours) are used. Flexural strength reached the maximum values of (2.81 MPa) at immersed time (18 Hours) with (10 % KOH) concentration, whereas the composites containing fibers treated with (10 % KOH) decreased to (0.312 MPa) at immersed time (240 Hours). This was attributed to degradation of coir fiber when using high concentrations of alkali.

Volume 3, Issue 2
Spring 2010
Pages 0-0

  • Receive Date 01 June 2010
  • Revise Date 20 June 2010
  • Accept Date 25 June 2010