The effect of various anhydride modifications on mechanical properties andwater absorption of oil palm empty fruit bunches reinforced polyester composites

The chemical modification of oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB) using non-c atalysed reaction with acetic, propionic and succinic anhydrides were inves tigated. Proof of modification was indicated by the increase of weight and was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared analysis (FT-IR), The mechanica l and water-absorption properties of all anhydride-modified EFB composites were evaluated at different volume fractions (V-f). The properties were imp roved for these modified fibres, whereas unmodified EFB fibres exhibited po or mechanical properties and higher water absorption. Acetic anhydride modi fication showed the greatest benefit on composite properties, followed by p ropionic and succinic anhydride modification. (C) 2001 Society of Chemical Industry.