Tert-butyl catechol/alkaline-treated kenaf/jute polyethylene hybrid composites: impact on physico-mechanical, thermal and morphological properties

This study focuses on the effects of fiber treatment on the mechanical, morphological, physical and thermal properties of kenaf/jute/polyethylene composites, by using alkaline-treated and raw fibers. The core of jute and kenaf fibers was chopped into shorter lengths and used for composite fabrication. The composites were then subjected to tensile, water absorption, SEM, FTIR, DSC and TGA tests. According to the FTIR spectroscopy results, the alkaline treatment removed a significant amount of lignin and other impurities, especially at lower infrared band. This reduced fibers' hydrophilicity, making it more compatible with the polymer. This is evident from the SEM results, as it shows improved interfacial bonding. Therefore, the treated fiber composites, especially for 15wt% composites, have higher tensile strengths, more thermal stability and higher activation energy.