The addition of Polyethylene-g-Maleic Anhydride as a compatibilizer on properties of low density polyethylene / water hyacinth fiber (Einchhornia Crassiper) composites

Abstract

The water hyacinths are largely available in local rivers in Perlis. In this research, the water hyacinths fibers have been used as reinforcing components for low density polyethylene. The chemical treatment by using Tetrahydrofuran was carried out to modify the fiber properties. The composites were prepared by using Zblade mixer at processing temperature 180°C and rotor speed 50 rpm and mixed sample are then been compressed by using hydraulic hot press to form sheet samples composites. Generally, treated fibers composition has superior and better mechanical properties than the untreated fibers. Morphology shows by the scanning electron microscope micrograph of fracture tensile surface shows that the treated low density polyethylene composites show better filler dispersion in matrix and embedded