A review on effect of chemical refinements on natural fiber composite properties / Muhammad Nurhaziq Nordin

Chemical refinement is important for natural fiber composite because it can enhance the interfacial adhesion between natural fiber and polymer matrix which strengthen the bond of polymer matrix with natural fiber. This study reviewed various chemical refinements used to reinforce the natural fiber with polymer matrix and their effect on natural fiber composite properties. Based on the finding in this review, there are various types of chemical refinement used on natural fiber such as alkaline treatment, silane treatment, acetylation treatment, benzoylation treatment, peroxide treatment, maleated coupling treatment, sodium carbonate treatment, acrylation and acrylonitrile grafting treatment, stearic acid treatment, permanganate treatment, and sodium bicarbonate treatment. Natural fiber composite properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength, water absorption, interfacial shear strength, and impact strength can be improved with the chemical refinement techniques listed in this review.