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Investigation of the Surface Characteristics of Chemically Modified Natural Fibers


EMSL Project ID
11690

Abstract

Natural plant fibers such as hemp and kenaf are desirable for use as mechanical property enhancers in plastic composites due to the fact that they are biodegradable, renewable, and environmentally-friendly. The quality of composites made from fibers and polymers depends on the interface between the two. The goal of this project is to use chemical means to improve the interfacial interactions between natural fibers and a polymer host. Analytical techniques for investigating the modified fiber surface will be crucial for determing the success of the chemical approach and for improving it.

Project Details

Project type
Exploratory Research
Start Date
2004-12-02
End Date
2006-12-12
Status
Closed

Team

Principal Investigator

Leonard Fifield
Institution
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Team Members

James Holbery
Institution
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Related Publications

ROLE OF FIBER MODIFICATION IN NATURAL FIBER COMPOSITE PROCESSING