Fibras de fique una alternativa para el reforzamiento de plásticos. influencia de la modificación superficial

Abstract

In this paper are studied the physicochemical, mechanical and thermal properties of the natural fique fibers, that can be used as reinforcement of polymeric matrices. The fibers were subjected to superficial modifications from chemical treatments which are conventionally used to promote the compatibility of natural fibers (hydrophilics) with matrices of polymeric nature (hydrophobics). The superficial modification process of the fibers was carried out by alkalinization treatment with NaOH, followed by grafting of a coupling agent type silane and then a pre-impregnation with polyethylene. By running FTIR tests, it was possible to observe functional typical groups of native fibers and confirmed the proper execution of the superficial modifications proposed; in the same way, the thermal characterization by TGA allowed to demonstrate the loss of hemicellulose and lignin, that were removed with alkaline treatment, and the appearance of a new transition due to the polyethylene deposited subsequently with the pre-impregnate treatment. Finally, it was found that the alkaline treatment conditioned the mechanical properties of the treated fibers, being negligible the influence of silanization and the pre-impregnation in this characterization.

Keywords

• Fique
• Natural fibers
• Chemical treatments
• Physical-mechanical performance
• fibrous reinforcement.