Discipline: Nanoscience
Subcategory: Materials Science
Session: 2
Room: Park Tower 8216
Aleeyah Johniken - Fayetteville State University
Co-Author(s): Shatori Meadows, Tuskegee University
The use of natural fiber in fiber reinforced composites is continuously growing due to its ability to aid in sustainability, cost savings, and reduced weight. However, natural fibers tend to have poor mechanical properties as well as poor interfacial compatibility between the fiber and matrix. For this reason, this paper presents the effect of alkaline surface treatments varied at 1, 2, and 3 % on the structural, thermal, and mechanical properties of flax fibers. The objective of this study was geared towards enhancing the interfacial adhesion between jute fibers and its consequent matrix, and to remove foreign impurities. Characterization of the treated fibers uses Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Tensile Test to characterize the morphological and compositional changes, thermal analysis, and subsequent mechanical properties on the jute fibers, with comparisons made based on changes between the untreated and treated jute fibers. Testing are in its initial stages, however, 2 % KOH alkaline treatment showed the highest thermal stability compared to the untreated flax fiber.
Funder Acknowledgement(s): National Science Foundation REU; CREST
Faculty Advisor: Shaik Zainuddin, szainuddin@tuskegee.edu
Role: I soaked the fibers in the alkaline treatment and ran test on all three fibers which showed me that 2% KOH had the best results.