Compressive properties of chemically-treated hemp fibre reinforced composites

Unidirectional hemp fibre reinforced in polyester matrix to prepare composite. The performances of the composites are largely determined by the interface bonding between the fibre and matrix. To improve this bonding fibre surface is chemically treated with alkalization, silanization and acetylation. Physical structure of the treated fibred is examined through scanning electron microscope (SEM). Changes of fibre constituents (cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin) of different treated fibres are determined. Compressive properties of the composites made by untreated and treated fibres were studies. The effect of fibre treatments on the composite properties is discussed on the basis of stress-strain relationship and microscopic analysis. Among the treatments acetylated fibre composites shows best results in composite properties. Failure surface reveals treated fibre provides better interface bonding