The characteristics of the fiber/matrix interface in polyester composites reinforced with coir fibers have been evaluated. This was carried out both, by measuring the interfacial shear strength and by microstructural observation of the coir fibers/polyester resin contact area. Tests of coir fiber extraction from resin sockets allowed an analysis by scanning electron microscopy of regions where the fibers underwent rupture or suffered pullout during extraction. The results showed interfacial shear strength similar to other lignocellulosic fibers. Moreover, a reasonable interface adhesion was obtained owing to the heterogeneous nature of the coir fibers, which facilitates the resin impregnation.
Coir fiber; fiber/matrix interface; interfacial strength; microstructure
