Study on Chemical Treatments of Jute Fiber for Application in Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites (NFRPC)

Engr. Ojukwu Martins chubuike; Chukwunyelu Christian Ebele; Engr. Ilo Fidelis Ifeanyi; Ekwueme Solomon Okwuchukwu; Orizu Eziafa Festus

Study on Chemical Treatments of Jute Fiber for Application in Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites (NFRPC)

( Vol-4,Issue-2,February 2017 ) OPEN ACCESS

Author(s):

Engr. Ojukwu Martins chubuike, Chukwunyelu Christian Ebele, Engr. Ilo Fidelis Ifeanyi, Ekwueme Solomon Okwuchukwu, Orizu Eziafa Festus

Keywords:

fiber-reinforced composites, natural ï¬ber, chemical treatments, sodium hydroxide, and potassium permanganate.

Abstract:

Research and studies on the use of natural ï¬bers as replacement to man-made ï¬ber in ï¬ber-reinforced composites have increased and opened up further industrial possibilities. Natural ï¬bers have the advantages of low density, low cost, biodegradability, recyclable, low pesticide and thus environmentally friendly. However, the main disadvantages of natural ï¬bers in composites are the poor compatibility between ï¬ber and matrix and the relative high moisture sorption. Therefore, chemical treatments are considered in modifying the ï¬ber surface properties. In this paper, the different chemical modiï¬cations and treatments on jute ï¬bers for use in natural ï¬ber-reinforced composites are reviewed. Chemical treatments including alkali, permanganate treatments and others are discussed. The chemical treatment of ï¬ber aimed at improving the adhesion between the ï¬ber surface and the polymer matrix may not only modify the ï¬ber surface but also increase ï¬ber strength. Water absorption of composites is reduced and their mechanical properties are improved.