Abstract: The implementation of natural fbres in polymer composites will result in biodegradable, low cost, recyclable materials for automobile and structural applications. In the process of making natural fbre composites viable in the global market, it is essential to understand its mechanical and physical properties. In the present investigation, mechanical and physical properties of pineapple Leaf (PALF) and Sun Hemp (SH) Fibre reinforced with epoxy matrix was studied in terms of weight (wt) % of fbre loading and chemical treatment. The composites were fabricated by compression moulding technique with PALF fbre content varying from 10, 15 and 20% of weight fraction. The PALF and SHF were treated with NaOH solution for 1 h at room temperature. The various mechanical properties such as tensile, compression, fexural and impact strength were measured as per ASTM standard. The density and water absorption were also measured to study the physical properties of the fabricated composites. The treated composites exhibit a rough surface because of the removal of the cellulose layer which results in better adhesion between the matrix/fbre interface than untreated composites. The NaOH treated fbres composites outperformed untreated fbre composites in terms of mechanical and physical properties except for impact strength. The morphological studies of the worn surfaces are examined using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).

Key words: Pineapple leaf fbre, Compression moulding, Mechanical properties, Physical properties, Morphological studies