Henequen/Unsaturated Polyester Biocomposites: Electron Beam Irradiation Treatment and Alkali Treatment Effects on the Henequen Fiber

Henequen natural fiber reinforced unsaturated polyester biocomposites were fabricated and characterized. Henequen fibers were treated with various electron beam irradiation (EBI) dose or different concentrations of alkali solution. The effects of EBI or alkali treatments on the both henequen fiber and the properties of biocomposites made of unsaturated polyester and henequen fiber were compared by Fourier transform infrared spectra, thermal gravimetric analysis and dynamic mechanical analysis. Characteristics of the henequen fiber surface showed differently depending on the treatments and there is a close relationship between the optimal surface treatment of henequen fiber and the highest performance of the biocomposite resulting from the good adhesion between fiber and matrix.