Date palm fibers as polymeric matrix reinforcement: DPF/polyester composite properties

Due to increased awareness on the part of end users and pressure from legislators, the composite industry has begun investigating the possibility of increasing the proportion of recycled or biodegradable composite materials. Accordingly, efforts are being deployed to find alternative reinforcement and resin systems that are environmentally friendly while providing the same performance as their synthetic counterparts. Natural fibers offer the potential to act as a reinforcing material for low to medium strength applications. In this study a natural fiber extracted from the date palm tree was used as reinforcement for polymeric matrix composites. Polyester composite specimens reinforced with date palm fibers (DPF) were subjected to various types of mechanical and physical tests in order to assess their performance. Results show that these fibers may yield reasonable properties and could be used for low-cost applications that require low to medium strength. Tests indicate, however, that additional work is needed to enhance the compatibility between the fiber and the matrix.