Investigating the Influence of Chemical Treatment on the Mechanical Behavior of Kenaf/PP Composite

The current research investigation reports the effectiveness of sustainable chemical treatment of kenaf fibers on the mechanical and morphological properties of kenaf/polypropylene (PP) composites. The study explores the use of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) treatment for modifying the surface of kenaf fibers to be used in the composite materials. Kenaf fiber mat was treated for 5% (w/v) NaOH treatment (2–6 h) and 10% (w/v) NaHCO3 (48–144 h) treatment. The treated and untreated composite specimens were tested for tensile and flexural properties, and interfacial characteristics, such as fiber-matrix adhesion and interfacial bonding. The outcomes revealed the optimum time duration of 4 h for NaOH treatment and 96 h for the NaHCO3 treatment. Additionally, it was determined that extended NaHCO3 treatment time might be an efficient way to enhance the mechanical characteristics of kenaf fiber composites, at par with alkali-treated kenaf fiber-based composites. Furthermore, morphological analysis of treated composite samples revealed a rough fiber surface and improved interfacial bonding between the kenaf fiber and PP. Therefore, the present research endeavor provides insights into the use of chemical treatments to improve the mechanical properties and interfacial bonding of kenaf/PP composites, with potential applications in the automotive and construction industries.