Effect of Fibre Surface Treatment on the Mechanical Properties of Jute Fibre Reinforced Unsaturated Polyester Composite

Interface between the fiber and polymer matrix plays a key role in fiber-reinforced composites. Modification of the interface by chemicals or particles promotes the interaction between fiber and matrix. In the present study, attempt has been made to modify the surface of jute fiber with starch particles, an eco-friendly and low-cost material. Coating of starch on jute fiber has been carried out by a solution-based approach with variation in fiber to starch ratio (100:1, 100:5, 100:10). Composites have been prepared by hand lay-up technique using starch uncoated and coated fibers along with unsaturated polyester resin (UPR). Fibers have been characterized by microscopy and thermal analysis which reveals the coating of starch particles on fibers. It has been observed that with increasing starch concentration roughness increases but higher content leads to smooth surface of the fiber. The mechanical properties of composite sheets have been evaluated by tensile, flexural and impact testing. Maximum tensile strength of 20.5 MPa and Young's modulus of 1457.7 MPa has been obtained in composites having starch-coated fibers with fiber to starch ratio of 100:5. water absorption studies show marginal variation in water uptake by the composites with starch-coated jute fibers.