Effect of Alkali Treatment on Structure and Mechanical Properties of Acrylonitrile–Butadiene–Styrene/Bamboo Fiber Composites

Abstract

The preparation and properties of wood–plastic composites (WPCs) based on acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) and bamboo fibers (BFs) are described. The BFs were first modified by alkali treatment in order to improve their adhesion to an ABS matrix. The BF modifications were monitored by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Styrene–maleic anhydride (SMA) copolymer, as a compatibilizer, was added to both the untreated and alkali-treated composites. The changes in the structure and the properties resulting from these treatments were observed by the SEM and mechanical tests. The experimental results indicated that both the alkali treatment of the BF and the inclusion of the SMA copolymer improved the interactions between the BF and ABS matrix, and promoted better mechanical properties of the composites.

Keywords:

• ABS
• alkali treatment
• bamboo fiber
• mechanical properties
• SMA

Acknowledgment

We are grateful for the financial support by the National Natural Science Foundation of China with grant number of 20304003.