| Abstract: | This paper presents the influence of Spartium junceum (SJ) fiber content, surface treatment and temperature on the water uptake of polypropylene/Spartium junceum fiber (PP/SJ) composites. Composites specimens were dried at 70°C to reach a constant weight and then were submerged in distilled water at different temperatures, 23°C and 85°C. Water uptake of PP/SJ fiber composites was found to increase with fiber content. Impact strength properties are dramatically affected by the water absorption. Water-saturated samples present poor impact strength. The SEM micrograph of Spartium junceum fiber untreated and treated with silane (Z-6020) illustrate the reduction of roughness via surface treatment of fiber. |
