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Chemical Modification of Date Palm Mesh Fibres for Reinforcement of Polymeric Materials. Part I: Examination of Different Cleaning Methods

The use of date palm mesh fibres (DPMF) as reinforcements for polymeric matrices is the aim of this work. A first step towards fibre preparation and cleaning for further treatment is described. DPMF were chemically cleaned using sodium hydroxide, carbon tetrachloride, a detergent and an alcoholic mixture of toluene/methanol/acetone. The cleaning efficiency was investigated by scanning electron microscopy and its effect on thermal degradation, water absorption and mechanical properties were further analysed. The SEM micrographs show the most effective cleaning in the case of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) treatment, and subsequent investigations showed an improvement in the tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of the fibres. The water uptake of NaOH treated fibres was found to be higher than that of the untreated ones and their thermal stability lay within a similar range, i.e. 225–250 °C. Because of these promising results, alkali treatment will be adopted as the basic cleaning method for future work.