Effect of the Fiber Size on the Physicochemical and Mechanical Properties of Composites of Epoxy and Date Palm Tree Fibers

Abstract

Lignocellulosic fibers from date palm trees were employed to reinforce an epoxy matrix. Two fiber sizes were used, with the length and diameter in the range of 20–30 and 1.5–3 mm, respectively, for the so‐called long fibers, and in the range of 5–15 and 0.25–0.75 mm, respectively, for the so‐called short fibers. The morphologies of the resulting composites, as well as their thermal, mechanical, and water sorption properties were evaluated. Strong interactions between both components and etherification reactions may occur between the hydroxyl groups of the fibers and the epoxy groups of the epoxy‐amine reactive mixture. These effects are emphasized when decreasing the size of the fibers.magnified image

Ionic hopping conductivity in potential batteries separator based on natural rubber–nanocellulose green nanocomposites

“…The current study is in keeping with the general pattern aiming at the valorization of lignocellulosics from rejected palms of the date palm tree [19][20][21][22]. Recent papers reported the extraction of nanofibrillated celluloses (NFCs) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) from the leaflets and rachis (axis that bears the leaflets) of palm tree [23,24].…”

Cellulose-reinforced composites: From micro-to nanoscale

“…Long and short date palm tree fibres were combined with an epoxy matrix to produce composite materials [22] . The long fibres have a length and diameter of around 25 mm and 2 mm, respectively, whereas the short one possessed a length and diameter of around 10 and 0.5 mm, respectively.…”

Natural fiber reinforced polystyrene composites: Effect of fiber loading, fiber dimensions and surface modification on mechanical properties

“…Sbiai et al observed similar trends in the mechanical properties of epoxy composites prepared by reinforcing date palm tree fibers of short and long dimensions [25]. Yemele et al reported similar trends in tensile and flexural properties when high density polythene was reinforced with bark fiber of short, long and particle dimensions with 50% and 60% by weight loading [26].…”