Surface Modification Rout for Date Palm Fibers-Polymer Bio-composites Towards Improved Interfacial Crosslinking

Surface modifications of bio-filler and polymer matrix is critical in natural fiber reinforced composites to improve compatibility with the hosting polymer. The literature contains only a few studies on grafting bio-fillers to improve their reactivity with polymer matrix. This study focuses on introducing crosslinking between Date Palm Particles (DPP) and Polypropylene (PP) using new methods. The experimental setup starts with chemical modifications of PP that result in the formation of PP- g - m TMI. Following that, the two components are blended together, forming a urethane link between the filler and the polymer. Following the fabrication of bio-composite sheets based on the Taguchi design, various specimens were prepared and tested thoroughly to assess their chemical properties, thermal stability, and mechanical properties. The results of the experiments revealed an improvement in the interfacial adhesion of the filler/polymer, which was confirmed by experimental mechanical characterization and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis. The new composite demonstrated improved strength, ductility, and overall durability, demonstrating its potential as a bio-based polymeric material.