Effect of Silane Coupling Agent on Flexural Strength and Hardness of Wheat Straw Polystyrene Composites

Abstract

In the present research work, the effect of silane treatment along with alkali treatment on flexural strength, flexural modulus, and hardness investigated. Wheat straw as a filler was added (5%, 10%, 15% and 20%) to polystyrene matrix to prepare wheat straw polystyrene composite. The wheat straw fibre was first treated with 20% NaOH and 1% silane coupling agent to prepare wheat straw polystyrene composite. The compounding process was carried out in twin-screw extruder and samples were prepared by the compression moulding process. There was an increase in flexural modulus (214%), flexural strength (44%), and hardness (28%) of composite with the addition of alkali and silane treated wheat straw fibre.