Enhanced compatibility between coconut fibers/PP via chemical modification for 3D printing

Aiming to produce high-quality bio-based 3D printed products, in this work, coconut fibers were chemical modified using caprolactone. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic reasonance (NMR) confirmed the grafting of hydroxyl groups present on surface with caprolactone units. Furthermore, from contact angle (CA) analyses, higher hydrophobicity after treatment was confirmed, which improved its affinity PP. The enhanced filler/matrix compatibility reflected mechanical performance processability ensuing composites. derived composites showed stiffness melting flow index (MFI), when compared untreated counterparts. used specimens. Smother filaments obtained fibers, confirms better fibers/PP. composite specimen produced treated presented smooth surface, similar This observation highlights enhancement printing quality due modification fibers.