Formulation and Characterization of Polypropylene Composites Alkali Treated Bagasse Fiber

Polymer composites reinforced with natural fiber that were obtained as industrial wastes, are of particular interest due to both the environmental benefits and economical advantages. In the present work sugarcane bagasse fibers, obtained as a waste from sugar and ethanol production, were incorporated in an amount of 25wt% into a polypropylene matrix. These fibers were previously alkali treated with NaOH to improve their adherence to the composite matrix. Thermal analyses were conducted in both types of composites, with untreated fibers and with alkali treated fiber. The result indicated that the alkali treatment improves the compatibility between the bagasse fiber and the polypropylene matrix, which then provides more thermal resistance.