UV-cured henequen fibers as polymeric matrix reinforcement: Studies of physico-mechanical and degradable properties

Henequen fiber can be incorporated in polymers like polyacrylate in different ways for achieving desired properties and texture. But its high level of moisture absorption, poor wettability and insufficient adhesion between untreated fiber and the polymer matrix lead to debonding with age. In order to improve the mechanical properties, sufficient surface alteration is required. In this work, the mechanical behavior of double impregnating monomer 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) and ethylacrylate (EA) reinforced with continuous henequen fibres (Agave fourcroydes) and irradiated under UV were studied. Details studies showed that EA grafted fibers demonstrated better physico-mechanical properties that of HEMA treated fibers. Prior to the grafting with monomer solution alkali treatment was done with a view to improve the physico-mechanical accomplishment of the henequen fibers’. Moreover, the effect of alkali on fiber properties was evaluated after treatment with the optimized monomer solution. Tensile strength (268% higher than untreated fiber), elongation at break (110%) and modulus (300%) were enhanced. The comparison of physico-mechanical properties between HEMA and EA reinforced fibers, EA treated fibers showed superior properties than that of HEMA reinforced fibers. The degradable properties under simulated weathering conditions of untreated and treated samples were also studied.