Evaluation of Tensile and Interfacial Strength of Coconut Palm Leaf Midrib as a potential Reinforcement for Plastics

Abstract- In the present scenario world is facing a serious problem of the polymer wastes due to its non-biodegradable nature. Production of the natural fiber composite is one of the noble approaches to minimize this problem and modify the polymer based materials as partially biodegradable. In last two decades many researchers have been investigating and exploring new natural fibers and their composites with polymers as matrix material. Due to various advantages and eco-friendly nature, natural fiber composites are replacing conventional materials and glass fibers in moderate strength applications. Strength of natural fiber/polymer composites highly depend upon interfacial strength between hydrophilic fiber and hydrophobic polymers. In this paper potential of a new natural fiber as midrib of coconut palm leaf is investigated for the purpose of synthesis of a new natural fiber composite. Tensile properties of midribs and interfacial strength between midrib and polyester resin and critical embedded length are determined by tensile test and fiber pull-out test. Results show that midrib of coconut palm leaves have potential for development of natural fiber composite