Purpose: In this work, coir fibre with varying fibre content was selected as reinforcements
to prepare polymer-based matrices and the problem of reduced fibre-matrix interfacial bond
strength has been diluted by chemical treatment of coir fibres with alkali solution.
Design/methodology/approach: The effect of fibre loading, solution concentration
and soaking time on the impact strength of the composites were analyzed using statistical
techniques. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) approach was used to model and
optimize the impact properties of coir-polyester composites.
Findings: The impact strength of coir fibre reinforced polyester composite depends mainly
on the fabrication parameters such as fibre-polyester content, soaking time, concentration
of soaking agent and adhesive interaction between the fibre and reinforcement.
Research limitations/implications: The mechanical properties of any coir polyester
composite depend on the nature bonding between the fibre and reinforcement. The presence
of cellulose, lignin on the periphery of any natural fibre reduces the bonding strength of the
composite. This limitation is overcome by fibre treatment over sodium hydroxide to have
better impact properties.
Practical implications: Now days, natural fibre reinforced composites are capable of
replacing automotive parts, subjected to static loads such as engine Guard, light doom,
name plate, tool box and front panels etc. These materials can withstand any static load due
to its higher strength to weight ratios.
Originality/value: The effect of fibre loading, solution concentration and soaking time on
the impact strength of the composites were analyzed using statistical techniques. Response
Surface Methodology (RSM) approach was used to model and optimize the impact
properties of coir-polyester composites. The impact strength of NaOH impregnated coir fibre
reinforced polyester composites was evaluated.
Drilling analysis of coir-fibre-reinforced polyester composites
