Search

There is more demand for natural fiber-reinforced composites in the energy sector, and their impact on the environment is almost zero. Natural fiber has plenty of advantages, such as easy recycling and degrading property, low density, and low price. Natural fiber’s thermal properties and flexural properties are less than conventional fiber. This work deals with the changes in the thermal properties and mechanical properties of S-glass reinforced with a sodium hydroxide-treated pineapple leaf (PALF) and banana stem fibers. Banana stem and pineapple leaf fibers (PALF) were used at various volume fractions, i.e., 30%, 40%, and 50%, and various fiber lengths of 20 cm, 30 cm, and 40 cm with S-glass, and their effects on the thermal and mechanical properties were studied, and their optimum values were found. It was evidenced that increasing the fiber volume and fiber length enhanced the flexural and thermal properties up to 40% of the fiber volume, and started to decrease at 50% of the fiber volume. The fiber length provides an affirmative effect on the flexural properties and a pessimistic effect on the thermal properties. The PALF S-glass combination of 40% fiber load and 40 cm fiber length provides maximum flexural strength, flexural modulus, storage modulus, and lowest loss modulus based on hybrid Taguchi grey relational optimization techniques. PALF S-glass hybrid composite has been found to have 7.80%, 3.44%, 1.17% higher flexural strength, flexural modulus, and loss modulus, respectively, and 15.74% lower storage modulus compared to banana S-glass hybrid composite.

Induction motors, acting as work house of industries, are affected by winding temperature due to poor insulation. In producing a sustainable polymer composite electrical insulator, this article gets into the investigative study of tensile strength, hydrophobicity, hardness and the electrical breakdown properties of silicone rubber (SR) reinforced with sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA). In order to identify optimal proportion, various filler proportions are studied for mechanical, physical, tensile and electrical properties. For 7% optimal filler composition, the tensile and hardness tests on SR/SCBA composite manifested a maximum value of 78.48 × 10–3 MPa and 0.91496 MPa, respectively. The electrical breakdown was recorded with the maximum value of 108.65 kV/cm with 7% filler. For hydrophobicity, the 7% filler specimens had the lowest rate of rise in weight after the water absorption test. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis and particle size analysis were carried out to evaluate the molecular interaction and particle dispersion. SEM analysis confirmed the presence of fiber-adhesion in matrix composites. Finally, the superiority of the context is also compared with earlier works. This context investigates the properties of bio-resin composite derived from sugarcane ash and creating its properties with artificial polymers to come out with a reliable electrical insulator application.

On the total earth wastes, nearly one-third was packaging wastes. Most of the packaging materials are non-biodegradable and non-recyclable. To overcome these issues, researchers turned their attention to develop biodegradable films(bio-films). In this article, through the solution casting method bio-films were developed by using water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and various proportions (5–25wt%) of rice hull powder as reinforcement filler. The effect of RHP on the PVA matrix was investigated by fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimeter, tensile test, surface morphology studies, water vapor permeability, and antibacterial testing. FTIR result revealed the proper bonding between PVA/RHP in bio-films via strong hydrogen bonds. XRD result reveals a slight increase in the intensity of bio-films and the crystalline size was reported between 5.53 and 13.28 nm. The infusion of RHP in the matrix shows that tensile strength and tensile modulus increases gradually and reaches the maximum value of 23.32 MPa and 684 MPa respectively at 25% of RHP in PVA. Thermal behavior proved that the bio-films were strong enough to withstand the temperature up to 350 °C. The lower values of WVP possess a higher interaction of polymer chains. The bio-film samples form a good inhibition zone against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and display remarkable antibacterial activity. From the microstructure images, it is visible that bio-films were homogenous, away from cracks and phase separation. By this evidence, RHP added PVA can be used as a packaging material.

Totally six composite bio-films were produced through a simple solution casting technique by varying the weight percentage (0, 5, 10,15, 20, 25 wt.%%) of the filler material (ground nutshell (GNS) ...

Owing to develop the utilization of biowaste materials and minimize the usage of plastic materials, Orange peel Powder (OPP) biowaste is chosen as filler material along with Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) as a matrix to form biocomposite films. To stretch its applications to antibacterial applications the metal nanoparticles were incorporated by the in-situ generation of Ag by reducing the various concentration of the aqueous solution of AgNO3 to fabricate novel PVA/OPP/(1 mM to 5 mM)AgNPs hybrid biocomposite films. The fabricated biofilms were undergone the antibacterial test, mechanical test, and characterized by FESEM, FTIR, XRD & thermal analysis. The FESEM images clarify the homogenous distribution of filler materials in the PVA matrix and binding between the filler materials & matrices. FT-IR spectrum illustrates, there is no functional group change in the films by the inclusion of AgNPs as compare to the PVA/OPP films and indicates the strong adhesion and well dispersion of filler materials. XRD patterns confirm the presence of Ag and accentuated the crystallite size of generated AgNPs in the films as 23.44 nm, 25.59 nm, 26.25 nm, 28.17 nm, and 28.42 nm. Thermal analysis of the films shows improved thermal stability as well as glass transition temperature of the composite films included with AgNPs, also the considerable increase in the tensile strength and tensile modulus of the PVA/OPP/AgNPs films as compared to the neat PVA, PVA/OPP films. As compare to neat PVA and PVA/OPP films, with the increase of concentration of AgNO3 source solution antibacterial activity of the PVA/OPP/AgNPs films increases against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. With the above-improved results by the inclusion of Ag nanoparticles, this hybrid biocomposite films can be utilized in food processing industries

Pure copper its composites reinforced with Rice Husk Ash (RHA) particles prepared by Friction Stir Processing (FSP) technique. Copper Matrix Surface Composites (CMSCs) is to enrich the metallurgical and mechanical properties. Pure copper used as matrix material and ceramics particles RHA used as reinforcement. CMSCs were fabricated a set of process parameters such as rotational speed 1000 rpm, transverse speed 40 mm/min and an axial force 10 kN with a single pass. CMSCs are presently characterized using Optical Microscope (OM), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Vickers hardness tester, and wear behavior conduct by pin-on-disk apparatus. High abrasive wear loss of pure copper because of its softness material. CMSCs of micrograph revealed the enhanced fine bonding in the stir zone (SZ) with a uniform dispersion of ceramic particles. The addition (0, 6, 12, 18 vol%) of RHA particles to copper prompts an expressive improvement in its hardness and wear resistance.

The physicochemical, thermal, and surface morphological properties of the Sida mysorensis fiber (SMF) were investigated first time in this article. From the chemical compositional analysis, higher ...

This investigation aimed at finding the effect of weight fraction (10 wt.%, 20 wt.% and 30 wt.%) and fiber orientation (0°, 45° and 90°) on mechanical properties (Tensile, Flexural and Impact) of C...

Friction stir processing (FSP) is developed for the usage aluminum alloys and it is metal processing method that can provide grain structure of microstructures. Due to the frictional processing heat and stir processing the microstructure of the foundation metal is changed. The Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) and Aluminium Nitride (AlN) are used as reinforcement with the base metal Al2024 by using friction stir processing. Hardness, corrosion resistance, micro structure formation wear resistance and durability of Al2024 have been increased in this friction stir processing by reducing the defects due to the melting of the metal. It is an excellent material processing technology, and there is a high possibility for the preparation of super plastic materials and metal matrix composites. This work is mainly to improve the mechanical properties of Al2024 while it is reinforced by Si3N4 and AlN. Thus the results from this investigation is explained and discussed.

FSW parameters to fabricate the dissimilar materials of Brass-Copper joints without any defects. It evaluated by microstructural characteristics, mechanical behaviour of the welded joints. In this process tool cylindrical shoulder produced frictional heat among tool shoulder and base materials. Commercially size of plates 100 × 50 × 6 mm Br and Cu were welded by machine parameters of rotational speed 1200 rpm travel speed of 50 mm/min and an axial force of 8 kN without any tilt. The made-up of FSW specimens characterized microstructures by Optical Microscopy (OM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Observed microhardness by Vickers hardness tester. The observed stir zone area properly joined in dissimilar metals without any defects and enhanced the microhardness value.

In this work, graphene was used as a filler for banyan aerial root fibers reinforced epoxy composites at various compositions. The synergetic effect of graphene and banyan fibers, on the physical a...

Natural fibers are emerging as best alternatives for synthetic materials in selective applications. These fibers may not have the required properties in its raw form and hence needs some alterations in its characteristics. Likely, this article reports enhancement in surface and structural properties of Thespesia populnea bark fiber treated with NaOH under various concentration and soaking period. Fibers treated with 5% NaOH for 60 min yields noteworthy mechanical strength (678.41 ± 48.91 MPa) owing to its relatively high cellulose fraction (76.42%). Fourier transform infrared spectra endorses the removal of non-cellulosic compounds and X-ray diffraction studies reveals 13.6% growth in the size of cellulose crystals on optimally treated fibers. Weibull distribution model statistically interprets the reliability of acquired tensile test results. Finally, microscopic examinations with scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy explore that fiber surface turns rough after alkali treatment and makes it appropriate for reinforcement in polymer matrices.

This study focuses on enhancing the free vibration characteristics of epoxy polymers by reinforcing it with Phoenix sp. fibers and nano-clay for the first time. The composites were prepared by vary...

In this work, the effects of alkali treatment on the chemical composition and thermal decomposition of Acacia planifrons fibers were investigated. The fibers originating from the bark of an Acacia planifrons tree were alkali treated with various concentrations (2% and 5% w/v) for 30 min. The treatment was found to diminish the amorphous contents, improve the crystallinity index and thermal stability of the fiber. The crystallinity index of the untreated, 2% alkali-treated and 5% alkali-treated fibers was estimated to be 65.38%, 69.94% and 74.76%, respectively. The thermal stability of the alkali-treated fiber was quite higher than that of the untreated fiber. The results revealed that 5% alkali-treated Acacia planifrons fibers are suitable to be used as reinforcement in polymer composites.

Modern smart materials have encouraged the investigators to aspect for extraordinary materials that can react to specific mechanical stimuli and retain the original shape. Electroactive polymers composites are smart materials, which are proficient of sensing and real-time actuation. Many such materials are suitable due to high strain rate, reliability, quick response, and high mechanical compliance even with tough manufacturing. This chapter reviewed the distinct characteristics of electroactive polymers composites and its applications and the parameters influencing the properties of those materials are also discussed. Moreover, this study used to enumerate the recent development in the area of electroactive polymers. The electromechanical properties of these materials provide them the fitness to serve as both sensors and actuators in the aerospace applications.

Self-healing composites are an extraordinary type of combination materials which are capable of automatically recovering after being damaged. This concept was raised from the inspiration of biological systems, especially human skin which can heal itself. In the past two decades, the concepts of self-healing have been proposed under two categories, one is based on the form of capsules and the other is in the form of vascular networks enclosed with healing agents. Also, it has been proven that recovery of the material properties of such materials was enhanced from 60% to 100%. This chapter provides a detailed fundamental background of polymer matrix composites which are of the self-healing type. The traditional way to fabricate this type of composite material is by incorporating the needful healing agent in the form of microvessels or microcapsules. While damage occurs, the material will burst the capsules containing the healing agent, in turn sealing the crack. This invention finds various application areas to create critical systems, such as offshore structures, satellites, and aircraft.

Currently, the manufacturing of self-healing materials is vital for real-time applications in engineering fields. In the course of recent decades, there has been an enormous interest in creating self-healing materials with this property to increase the lifetime of materials, diminish the cost of replacement, and also enhance product safety. This material can be produced using an assortment of polymeric and metallic materials. This chapter reviews the fundamental advancements that are now being produced, especially in the areas of thermosetting polymeric composites. The different self-healing ideas developed from the previous literature are then described in detail.

Areva javanica (AJ), a natural cotton flowers fiber of Amaranthaceae family was taken up for the study of its possible utilization in a friction composite. The chemical composition of Areva javanica fiber (AJF) such as cellulose, lignin, ash, moisture, wax content, and density was evaluated. In addition to these, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) tests were performed. The surface roughness of AJ fiber was estimated using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and the statistical analysis using Weibull distribution was carried out to identify the diameter of AJ fiber. TGA studies revealed its moderate thermal resistance upto 219℃, and a density of 1.4005 g/cc was estimated of AJF. An attempt was made to make use of the AJF as a potential reinforcement material for acrylic fibers in an organic disc brake pad formulation. Upon fibrization, AJ fibrillates and forms a dense structure, a vital property required for the production of a brake pad. The role of AJ fiber in brake pad was studied by investigating the behavior of fibers from the mixing stage to the cured brake pad. Results revealed that the developed brake pad had a density of 2.01 g/cc, hardness HRS 91, Loss on ignition 21.68%, and cold and hot shear strengths of 44 and 27 kg/cm2, respectively. These values were very close to that of an Acrylic fiber based brake pad. The wear test using Friction Assessment and Screening test (FAST) gave the wear percentage of 0.0187 in3/Hp-h which was found to be 16% higher than AJF (0.0159 in3/Hp-hr) based brake pad.

Natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites (NRPCs) are replacing many synthetic fibers because of their cheap availability and their hygienic, ecological, biodegradable, and sustainable pr...

Natural fibers are the one worthy substitute for replacing synthetic fibers and used as a polymer reinforcement due to their eco-friendly nature. This investigation deals with the newly identified Sida cordifolia fibers (SCFs) characterized by chemical analysis, single fiber tensile test, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG), Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The chemical constituents of SCFs contains cellulose (69.52%), hemicellulose (17.63%), and lignin (18.02. %). The SCFs are thermally stable up to a temperature of 338.2°C evidenced by TGA analysis. The X-ray diffraction confirmed that SCFs were rich in cellulose fraction with a crystallinity index of 56.92%.

Owing to their low weight-to-high strength ratio and recyclable features, the natural fibers are the most potential choice in place of synthetic fibers and been used as reinforcement materials in polymer matrix composites. Characterization of Ceiba pentandra bark fibers (CPFs) such chemical analysis, Fourier Transform-Infrared Analysis (FTIR), X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and Differential thermogravimetric analysis (DTG) analysis has analyzed. CPFs contain 60.9% (w/w) of cellulose, 17.5% (w/w) of hemicellulose, and 23.5% (w/w) of lignin. Besides, its density and crystallinity index are 682 kg m−3 and 57.94%, respectively. TG and DTG analysis discovered that CPFs are thermally stable up to 342.1°C. Further, all the resources of CPFs ensured that it can be an excellent alternative for synthetic fibers in polymer matrix composites.

The natural fiber Epipremnum aureum was extracted from its plant. E. aureum fibers (EAFs) were investigated by chemical analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction, ...

The poor wear performance of copper is improved by reinforcing hard ceramic particles. The present work reports the fabrication of Cu/TiB2 (0, 6, 12, 18 vol.%) copper matrix composites (CMCs) using friction stir processing (FSP). TiB2 particles were initially packed together into a machined groove and were subjected to FSP under a constant set of process parameters. The microstructure was observed using optical, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The wear behavior was examined using a pin-on-disc apparatus. The micrographs showed a homogeneous distribution of TiB2 particles without aggregation and segregation. The distribution of TiB2 particles was closely persistent across the stir zone. TiB2 particles were well bonded with the copper matrix without any interfacial reaction. Many TiB2 particles fractured during FSP. The grains in the composite were extensively refined because of dynamic recrystallization and pinning effect of TiB2 particles. The wear behavior under dry sliding condition was presented in detail.

Natural fibers are one of effective substitute for switching artificial fiber and concentrating to reinforce polymer matrixes due to their decomposable character. This study was implied to ...

The increasing environmental awareness has directed attention of the researchers towards the field of natural fiber composites. The aim of this investigation is to understand the physico-chemical properties of fibers extracted from the bark of the Dichrostachys Cinerea (DC) plant. Dichrostachys Cinerea fibers (DCFs) has cellulose (72.4 wt. %), hemicellulose (13.08 wt. %), lignin (16.89 wt. %), density (1240 kg/m3), crystallinity index (57.82%), and tensile strength (873 ± 14 MPa). Besides the cellulose degradation of DCFs at 359.3° vide by the thermo-gravimetric analysis and chemical groups are identified by Fourier transform analysis. Eventually the characterization results of DCFs strongly show the possibility of reinforcement in polymer matrices.

This investigation summarizes the characteristics of biofiber extracted from the Perotis indica plant. Cellulose content (68.4 wt%), density (785 kg m−3), crystallinity index (48.3%), tensile strength (317–1,608 MPa), and Young’s modulus (8.41–69.61 GPa) properties were identified in the P. indica fibers (PIFs), and thermal stability was studied using thermal gravimetric analysis and derivative thermogravimetric analysis, which revealed its cellulose degradation at a temperature of 339.1°C. Further, the properties of PIFs ensured that it can play an imperative role as new reinforcement as green composites in the manufacturing industries.

The characterization of new natural fiber is increasing due to its excellent properties. This drives investigators to create high performance composites. The present investigation was designed to study the physicochemical properties of fibers obtained from the leaf of the Artistida hystrix. The Artistida hystrix fibers (AHFs) had crystallinity index (44.85%), cellulose (59.54 wt%), hemicellulose (11.35 wt%), lignin (8.42 wt%), and density (540 kg m−3). The tensile strength of AHFs was 440 ± 13.4 MPa with an average strain rate of 1.57 ± 0.04%. The calculated microfibril angle of AHFs was 12.64 ± 0.45°, which influenced the mechanical properties.

In this work, the influence of fiber content and alkali treatment on the mechanical and thermal properties of Acacia leucophloea fiber-reinforced epoxy composites was studied. Ten composite samples were fabricated by varying fiber content (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 wt%); both untreated and treated fiber were soaked in a 5% NaOH solution for 45 min by using hand-layup method. The composite reinforced with 20 wt% treated fiber content exhibited better mechanical properties and thermal properties. Fourier transform infrared analysis, morphological analysis by atomic force microscope, and scanning electron microscope of composites were also performed.

The aim of this present investigation was to identify a new natural fiber from one of the cotton plant’s byproducts, which is chemically modified by alkaline treatment. Its characteristics were examined for the preparation of natural fiber–reinforced polymer composites. The cotton shell fibers (CSFs) were extracted from the cotton shell and its degree of crystallinity, crystallite size, chemical constituents group, and thermal stability were determined by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The alkali treatment of CSFs is optimized at 5% (w/v) NaOH aqueous solution with 45 min soaking time.

Identification of new natural fibers is growing due to their superior properties and the impetus for researchers to develop high-performance composites. This investigation was aimed at understanding the physico-chemical properties of Acacia planifrons fibers (APFs). The crystalline structure of APFs was analyzed by X-ray diffraction, and the crystallinity index (65.38%) was calculated. The chemical functional group of APFs was confirmed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, the thermal stability measured by thermogravimetric analysis, and surface characterization established by atomic force microscopy. Taken together, all the properties of APFs can play a vital role in establishing APFs as new reinforcement in polymer composites.

Cellulose is the key constituent of natural fibers and its proportion significantly varies with the growth of the plant. Hence, a study on the influence of plant maturity on fiber properties is essential to recognize optimal fiber source. In this investigation, cellulose fibers were successfully extracted from Thespesia populnea tree barks of approximately 10 mm-80 mm diameter stem and the influence of stem growth on physiochemical, thermal, mechanical and morphological characteristics of the fiber were investigated. The diameter of fiber increased from 150 μm to 200 μm with stem growth meanwhile its water uptake capability decreases by 13.8%. FTIR spectra and thermal analysis confirm the presence of cellulose compound in fiber structure, also the fiber can be stable up to 318 °C. The XRD outcome estimates 44-49% crystallinity index with an average crystallite size of 29.625 A. Under the tensile load, fiber fails primarily by brittle fracture and its tensile strength ranges from 559 MPa to 329 MPa with an average elongation between 2.9% and 1.7%. Morphology analysis illustrates that fiber surface is becoming rough on maturity and can offer good interfacial strength when reinforced with composites.

Natural fibers play a vital role in the field of composites mainly due to their environmental friendliness, the nature of their disposal, and low energy requirement for processing. Recently, research ideas have focused on exploration of promising natural fibers with superior mechanical properties. Sida rhombifolia is one such perennial shrub from which high stiffness natural fibers can be extracted. The physico-chemical properties of Sida rhombifolia fibers (SRFs), crystallinity index (56.6%), higher cellulose (75.09 wt.%) content, and lower density (1320.7 kg/m3) were revealed and compared to those properties of other natural fibers.

Natural fibers are being used as reinforcing materials for polymer composites due to their eco-friendly properties. Areca fruit husk fiber (AFHF) is one such fiber; it is currently discarded waste from the tobacco industry, but has huge potential. It is light in weight with a perforated surface that enables good bonding with a polymer matrix. In this study, comprehensive characterization of physical, chemical, thermal, mechanical, and microstructural properties was carried out on the fiber and the composite made with that fiber to optimize the fiber content. The optimum fiber content is found to be 40 wt.%, whereas beyond that, fiber pull-out and debonding reduces the load-bearing capacity of the composite. The specific properties of AFHF polymer composite are even higher than that of the popular E-glass fiber composite, which positions AFHF composite as an alternative structural material.

Natural fibers from bio-renewable sources have the potential to be used as an alternate reinforcement for the perilous synthetic fibers. The hazards of prolong exposure to such fibers are quite serious, which demands scientific intervention. Natural fibers, like the one investigated – Cissus quadrangularis stem fiber (CQSF), have proven thermomechanical properties for polymer composite reinforcement. Enhancing fiber–matrix bonding through chemical treatments such as mercerization and deposition of cotton linters-based microcrystalline cellulose powder on fiber surface are comprehensively investigated. The mechanical properties of treated fiber composites reveal good bonding features through scanning electron microscopy analysis, which are further substantiated by the evaluation of mechanical property. In particular, 5 wt.% cellulose powder-treated CQSF/polyester composites showed distinguishable enrichment in mechanical and water absorption characteristics.

The attractive properties of raw Acacia leucophloea fibers (ALFs) resulted in this present study evaluating the physio-chemical properties of alkali-treated ALFs. The treatment of raw ALFs with 5% (w/v) sodium hydroxide solution with 45 min soaking time was found to be optimum. It was found that optimally treated ALFs had relatively higher tensile strength (357–1809 MPa), Young’s modulus (10.45–87.57 GPa), and percentage of elongation (1.91–5.88%) and high thermal stability. The optimally treated ALFs had high cellulose (76.69 wt.%) and low hemicellulose (3.81 wt.%) and lignin (13.67 wt.%) contents and higher crystallinity index (74.27%), as evidenced by the results of chemical and X-ray diffraction analyses.

There is a need to explore the possibility of natural fibers as a novel reinforcement to fabricate lightweight composite structures. This investigation was aimed at understanding the characteristics of fiber extracted from the bark of the Acacia leucophloea (AL) plant and its physico-chemical properties. Cellulose content (68.09 wt.%), density (1385 kg/m3), crystallinity index (51%), tensile strength (317–1608 MPa), and Young’s modulus (8.41 − 69.61 GPa) properties were identified in the AL fibers, and thermal studies using TG and DTG analysis revealed that they degraded at a temperature of 220°C with kinetic activation energy of 73.1 kJ/mol.

There is ever-increasing interest in using natural fibers in polymer composite systems and textile industry. Prosopis juliflora fibers (PJFs) possess ideal characteristics that make them suitable for various applications. Alkali treatment of PJFs was primarily aimed to change their physico-chemical properties; 5% (w/v) NaOH concentration and 60 min of soaking time were found to be optimal. It is intriguing to note that optimally treated PJFs had higher cellulose (72.27 wt.%), lower hemicellulose (4.02 wt.%) and lignin (12.09 wt.%) contents, higher crystallinity index (73%), tensile strength, and thermal stability.

Incompatibility between hydrophilic natural fibers and hydrophobic matrix is known to affect the adhesion of the fiber and matrix. Therefore, it becomes necessary to modify the surface of natural fibers for improved adhesion between the fiber and matrix. Prosopis juliflora fibers (PJFs) are known to possess desirable properties for use as reinforcement in polymer matrices. Using chemical analysis, the optimal condition for alkali treatment of the PJFs was found to be 5% (w/v) of NaOH concentration with 60 min soaking time. Chemical modifications favorably changed the physiochemical properties of PJFs and undoubtedly diminished the amorphous and wax contents.

Natural fibers from plants are ideal choice for producing polymer composites. Bark fibers of Prosopis juliflora (PJ), an evergreen plant have not been utilized for making polymer composites yet. Hence, a study was undertaken to evaluate their suitability as a novel reinforcement for composite structures. PJ fiber (PJF) was analyzed extensively to understand its chemical and physical properties. The PJF belonged to gelatinous or mucilaginous type. Its lignin content (17.11%) and density (580 kg/m(3)) were relatively higher and lower, respectively in comparison to bark fibers of other plants. The free chemical groups on it were studied by FTIR and XRD. It had a tensile strength of 558±13.4 MPa with an average strain rate of 1.77±0.04% and microfibril angle of 10.64°±0.45°. Thermal analyses (TG and DTG) showed that it started degrading at a temperature of 217 °C with kinetic activation energy of 76.72 kJ/mol.