Investigations of the use of a mussel-inspired compatibilizer to improve the matrix-fiber adhesion of a biocomposite

Vegetable fibers have several positive aspects, such as low production costs, biodegradability and good mechanical properties, which make them very attractive in the field of composite reinforcement. The aim of this study is to introduce into a L-poly-(lactic-acid) (PLLA) - hemp biocomposite a new compatibilizer, inspired from the mussels' adhesive capacity, to improve the fiber-matrix bonding. As a first step, we carried out atomic force microscopy (AFM) and surface energy measurements in order to prove the compatibilizer's presence. Secondly, tensile tests were performed. The results show a significant increase of Young's modulus and the breaking strength when using polydopamine. Observations made through scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) confirmed an improvement of the fiber-matrix coupling in the presence of poly-(dopamine). (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.