Title
Effect of alkaline treatment on sawdust as a reinforcing agent for polymer composites
Authors
KHALIDA ZITOUNI, AZZEDINE BENYAHIA, MOURAD FERHAT, AZZEDINE MELOUKI and LAMIA BENOUADAH

Received June 12, 2025
Published Volume 60 Issue 1-2 January-February
Keywords sawdust, composite, alkali treatment, adhesion, tensile strength, hydrophilic

Abstract
Material scientists are interested in plant fibers due to their availability, affordability, biodegradability, and strong mechanical properties. They are considered as sustainable alternatives to synthetic fibers in polymer composites; however, their poor adherence to the polymer matrix presents a significant obstacle in this area. This study aims to enhance the hydrophobicity of sawdust by treatment with varying concentrations of NaOH solution (2, 4, 6 and 8 wt%) at 40 °C for 5 hours, which is expected to improve its compatibility with the polymeric matrix. FTIR, XRD, TGA, DTG and SEM characterization techniques were performed, and water absorption and tensile tests were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of this treatment.