Effect of Mercerization on Mechanical Properties of Jute/Flax/Hemp Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites

Abstract

The primary goal of this study is to examine the impact of mercerization over elastic and strength properties of jute/flax/hemp fiber-reinforced polymer composites. Bast fibers such as flax, jute and hemp fibers were selected as a reinforcement in the composite, and epoxy was considered for the matrix. Using the Hand Lay-up method, the composites are manufactured with a 40% fiber volume fraction and a 60% matrix volume fraction. To enhance the fiber-matrix interface, all fibers are chemically treated by the process of mercerization. The natural fibers are treated with an alkaline solution (2% NaOH; sodium hydroxide). Tensile and compressive tests on composite coupons were carried out using the ASTM standards to investigate the material properties along various fiber directions of 0°, 90°, and 45°. Based on the results of mechanical properties, it was observed that the chemical treatment had mixed results over the composite properties. The mercerization had a positive impact on the composite’s properties along the fiber direction, whereas the mercerization had a negative impact along the transverse direction of the fiber.