Performance Characteristics of Unsaturated Polyester Reinforced with High Frequency Microwave Treated Natural Fibre

Abstract Using the most environmentally sustainable agro-waste fibers as reinforcement has opened up a new direction for polymer composite research. Research recommended that altering of fibre surface by both chemical and physical means, increases performance characteristic natural fibre/polymer matrix. In this study, high-frequency microwave irradiation at frequency 2.45 GHZ 550W power was used to treat extracted from plantain (Musa paradisiacal) pseudo steam. Microwave modified untreated fabricate biocomposite using polyester resin matrix, means hand lay-up compression moulding technique. Results reveal an increase in mechanical strength reinforced bio-composites optimised conditions, thus creating opportunities consistency be use technological structural applications.