Improved mechanical and water absorption properties of epoxy-bamboo long natural fibres composites by eco-friendly Na2CO3 treatment

Epoxy-bamboo long natural fibres composites were prepared by hand lay-up method to study the influence of fibre's treatment on their characteristics. SEM showed increased surface roughness due to the removal of amorphous compounds from the treated fibre as confirmed by the disappearance of certain peaks in FTIR spectroscopy. Resultantly, similar to 52% increase in crystallinity was observed by XRD analysis. TGA results also showed the effectiveness of the treatment as mass loss for treated fibres was similar to 15% lesser than the untreated fibres. Moreover, thermogravimetric analysis of composites showed highest mass loss in untreated fibres composites and lowest in neat epoxy. The DSC-DTA curves indicated an early start of initiation temperature in treated fibre composite. Tension tests showed similar to 12% and similar to 16% increase in tensile strength and modulus respectively for treated fibres composite due to increased interfacial strength caused by fibre treatment. Treatment also resulted in decreased impact energy and water absorption level.