Kudzu fiber-reinforced polypropylene composites

A kudzu fiber reinforced polypropylene composite was prepared and its mechanical properties and thermal properties were tested. To enhance the adhesion between the kudzu fiber and the polypropylene matrix, maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene (MAPP) was used as a compatibilizer for the composite. It was found that mechanical properties such as the tensile strength and tensile modulus increased significantly when MAPP was used in the composite formulation. Scanning electron micrographs showed improved dispersion and adhesion. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies showed an increase in hydrogen bonding with an increase in MAPP content. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis indicated little change in the melting temperature of the composites with changes in MAPP content.