Effect of Polymeric Coupling Agent on Mechanical Properties of Kenaf Fiber / Polystyrene Composites

Abstract

In order to improve the properties and the processability of kenaf fiber (KF) / polystyrene (PS) composites, the newly synthesized polymeric silane coupling agent (CA) was utilized and evaluated. KFs were reacted with CA in the melt system and in the solvent system. The composites reinforced by the modified KF showed enhanced mechanical properties compared with those reinforced by the unmodified KF. The effect was especially remarkable when the KF was modified with CA in the solvent system. As the CA content increases, the surface of KF recovered from the composites showed the higher Si / C ratio indicating the good reaction between KF and CA. The modified composites also showed a remarkable reduction in water uptake rate.