Plasma modification of sisal and high-density polyethylene composites : effect on mechanical properties

Abstract

Sisal fibers and finely powdered high-density polyethylene were surface functionalized using dichlorosilane (DS) under R-F plasma conditions to improve interfacial adhesion between the two dissimilar substrates. The functionalized polyethylene (70%) and sisal (30%) were compounded on four different ways using thermokinetic mixer and injected molded into composites specimens for test. Some improvements in mechanical properties of the composites due to the plasma treatments were achieved. Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM) data indicated that some compatibilization of the two plasma modified phases had taken place as compared to non-plasma treated composite.

Citation

Martin, A.R.; Manolache, S.; Mattoso, L.H.C.; Rowell, R.M.; Denes, F. 2000. Plasma modification of sisal and high-density polyethylene composites : effect on mechanical properties. Proceedings from the Third International Symposium on Natural Polymers and Composites--ISNaPol/2000 and the Workshop on Progress in Production and Processing of Cellulosic Fibres and Natural Polymers : May 14-17, 2000 ... Sao Pedro, SP, Brazil. Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil : Embrapa--Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuaria, Embrapa Instrumentacao Agropecuaria, 2000: Pages 431-436