Synthesis of an Environmental Friendly Material as Cocos Nucifera Leaves Reinforced Epoxy Composite and Effect of Alkali Treatment of Fibers on Mechanical Properties

Abstract

Nowadays, plastic pollution presents a great threat for the world environment and health of the living beings. In past three decade, various natural fiber composites were investigated to find a solution for plastic pollution. In this paper, a natural fiber composite as midrib of coconut leaves (MCL) reinforced epoxy resin was developed and studied. The investigation was aim to find out the effect of reinforcement and chemical treatment at different soaking period, on mechanical properties of the composite. Results showed that mechanical properties have been increased due to the MCL reinforcement and chemical treatment of MCL. The maximum tensile and Impact strength was found for alkali treated fiber composites with 12 hours soaking period while maximum flexural strength was found with 6 hours soaking period.