Enhancing the fiber-matrix interface of r-ABS and bamboo fiber composite developed through melt compounding: An analysis of mechanical and morphological

Abstract

In recent years, researchers and scholars have shown growing interest in exploring the applications of natural fibers in polymer composites, driven by their environmentally friendly and sustainable characteristics. This study endeavors to offer an exhaustive examination of the prominent and widely adopted natural fiber reinforced polymer composites and their diverse range of applications. Furthermore, it provides an overview of different surface treatment methods applied to natural fibers and their influence on the properties of, highlighting the significant variations in properties depending on the fiber type, source, and structure. Bamboo fibers (BF) and recycled chemically functionalized acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (r-ABS) composites (BF/rABS) have been blended at 190°C. The composites show a higher tensile and flexural properties than r-ABS. The presence of bamboo fibers functions as stress concentrators, resulting in minimized deformation and consequently reducing the impact strength of the composites in comparison to the matrix. The SEM and FTIR analysis have shown that the adhesion between fiber and the matrix is good which therefore improves the tensile properties of the composite materials. XRD analysis has shown improved crystallinity in composite as compared to matrix.