Effects of sodium carbonate on the performance of epoxy and polyester coir-reinforced composites

Surface modification induced by sodium carbonate on coir fibres was studied in view of its application as a reinforcing agent in polyester and epoxy polymer fibre-reinforced composites. Coir fibres were treated with a 10 wt% sodium carbonate solution for different periods of time (24, 96 and 168 h) at room temperature. The surface treatment was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. Tensile,...