Enhancing the performance of hybrid bio-composites reinforced with natural fibers by using coupling agents

Natural fiber-reinforced hybrid bio-composites are emerging as sustainable alternatives to traditional composites due to their environmental benefits and desirable properties. However, the interfacial interaction between natural fiber and polymer matrix is very weak. Thus, this study looks into the effect of maleic anhydride (MAH) coupling agents on the performance of natural fiber-reinforced hybrid biocomposites. The bio-composites were prepared using jute fiber, kenaf fiber, and polylactic acid (PLA) through the hot compression method. We treated both natural fibers with MAH coupling agents before using them in the production of biocomposites. Comprehensive characterization techniques, including tensile strength, modulus, and impact strength, were employed to evaluate the mechanical properties of the composites. The mechanical results indicated a significant improvement in mechanical properties for the bio-composites treated with coupling agents. The tensile strength of bio-composites increased by 35%, tensile modulus by 15%, and impact strength by 20% after modification with MAH coupling agents. The surface morphology and chemical interactions between the fiber and polymer matrix were investigated using SEM and FTIR studies. The FTIR result reveled that the intensity of C=O peaks enhanced after MAH treatment. Moreover, SEM images exposed better fiber dispersion and adhesion, corroborated by FTIR spectra showing enhanced chemical bonding where MAH reacted with the cellulose backbone of the fibers and formed fiber cellulose ester. Furthermore, TGA results revealed that adding MAH coupling agent to the fiber increased the thermal stability of biocomposites.