Effect of Mercerization and Benzoyl Peroxide Treatment on Morphology, Thermal Stability and Crystallinity of Sisal Fibers

Studies on the use of natural fibers as replacement to man-made fiber in fiber-reinforced composites have increased and opened up further industrial possibilities. Natural fibers have the advantages of low density, low cost, and biodegradability. However, the main disadvantages of natural fibers in composites are the poor compatibility between fiber and matrix and the relative high moisture sorption. Therefore, chemical treatments are considered in modifying the fiber surface properties. In this study, Sisal fibers were modified using alkali and benzoyl peroxide solution of different concentration for different time intervals. Morphological changes, thermal stability and crystallinity of fibers were investigated using scanning electron microscope (SEM), TGA and XRD technique. Thermal stability of sisal fibers were decreased on mercerization. Whereas, sisal fibers treated with benzoyl peroxide the enhanced thermal stability. In case of XRD studies, sisal fibers show enhanced crystallinity.