Novel Eco-Friendly Biocomposites: Biofiber Reinforced Biodegradable Polyester Amide Composites— Fabrication and Properties Evaluation

ABSTRACT: Lignocellulosic natural fibers like sisal and pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) can be incorporated in polymers based on biodegradable polyester amide matrix, BAK 1095 for achieving desired properties and texture in the resulting biocomposites. But high level of moisture absorption, poor wettability and insufficient adhesion between untreated fiber and the polymer matrix led to debonding with age. In order to improve the above qualities, various surface treatments of sisal fiber like mercerization, cyanoethylation, acetylation, bleaching and vinyl monomer (acrylonitrile) grafting are carried out which results in improved mechanical performance of sisal-BAK composites. Mechanical properties like tensile and flexural strength are optimum at a fiber loading of 50 wt%. Among all modifica-tions, alkali treatment and acetylation result in improved properties of the composites. Alkali treated sisal composite shows about 20 % increase in tensile strength and acetylate