Date palm fibers as polymeric matrix reinforcement: Fiber characterization

• Published in: Polymer composites Vol. 26; no. 4; pp. 486 - 497
• Main Authors: Al-Khanbashi, A., Al-Kaabi, K., Hammami, A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hoboken Wiley Subscription Services, Inc., A Wiley Company 01.08.2005; Willey; Blackwell Publishing Ltd
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Compounding ingredients; Exact sciences and technology; Fillers and reinforcing agents; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Technology of polymers; Monocotyledones; Reinforcing filler; Plant fiber; Mechanical properties; Tensile property; Experimental study; Property processing relationship; Density; Thermal stability; Surface treatment; Thermal properties; Structure processing relationship; Chemical treatment; Natural fiber; Morphology; Phoenix dactylifera; Angiospermae; Spermatophyta; Palmae
• ISSN: 0272-8397; 1548-0569
• DOI: 10.1002/pc.20118

Stringent environmental regulations and increased interest in the preservation of natural resources have forced the composite industry to examine “ecofriendly” components. Efforts are being deployed to find alternative reinforcements and resin systems that are environmentally friendly while providing the same performance as their synthetic counterparts. The aim of this article is to study the potential of using date palm fibers (DPF) as reinforcement in polymeric materials. This objective was achieved by characterizing the DPF through the evaluation of their chemical, physical, and mechanical properties and comparing them with other commonly used natural fibers. The effect of different surface modification processes on DPF properties such as tensile strength, density, surface morphology, and thermal stability were investigated. POLYM. COMPOS., 26:486–497, 2005. © 2005 Society of Plastics Engineers.