Banana fibres obtained from the sheath of banana plant (Musa Sapientum) whose major constituent is cellulose were modified using various chemical agents in order to improve their compatibility with polymer matrix. The change in the surface composition of the raw and chemically modified fibre was investigated using various techniques like Fourier Transform Infra Red Spectroscopy (FTIR),solvatochromism, electrokinetic measurements, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Photo electron Spectroscopy XPS. Composites were prepared using the chemically modified fibres and the effect of chemical modification on the composite properties were further analysed by looking at the mechanical,dynamic mechanical, electrical and water absorption behaviour of the composites. Fibre surface characterisation by the different techniques revealed the changes on the raw fibre surface after chemical modification Surface characterization by XPS showed the presence of numerous elements on the surface of the fibre. Silane treatment was found to introduce considerable amount of silicon on the surface of the fibre.The dissolution of the various surface components by alkali treatment was confirmed by XPS as well as SEM.Solvatochromism and zeta potential measurements showed the change in the surface acidity and basicity of the fibres. The XPS results were found to perfectly agree with the solvatochromic and electrokinetic measurements. The effect of chemical modification on the interaction between the fibre and the matrix were investigated using mechanical, dynamic mechanical and electrical properties of the composites. Properties of the composites were found to be dependent on the fibre modifications done on the surface. Alkali treatment was found to be the most efficient method for modifying the fibre surface in the current context.
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