Thermo-Mechanical Treatment to Improve Properties of Sisal Fibres for Composites

Abstract

The cross section variation, mechanical properties and moisture absorption of vegetable sisal fibres compressed at temperatures of 120, 160 and 200 °C were determined and compared with values obtained in non-compressed fibres. The thermo-mechanical treatment carried out resulted in a relevant increasing of fibre stiffness (elastic modulus) and decreasing of fibre moisture absorption.