Thermal conduction and diffusion through polyester composites

Using Transient Plane Source technique, thermal properties like thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity and specific heat of polyester composites of banana fibers (treated and untreated) are measured simultaneously at room temperature and normal pressure. The increase in thermal conductivity is observed in some treatments. The performance of the composite depends to a large extent on the adhesion between polymer matrix and the reinforcement. This is often achieved by surface modification of the matrix or the filler. Banana fiber was modified chemically to achieve improved interfacial interaction between the fiber and the polyester matrix. Various silanes and alkali were used to modify the fiber surface. Chemical modification was found to have a profound effect on the fiber/matrix interaction which is evident from the enhanced thermal conductivity values. Of the various chemical treatments, simple alkali treatment with 1% NaOH was found to be the most effective.