In this work the effect of a new chemical surface treatment on the structure and surface morphology of loofah fibers (Luffa cylindrica) was analyzed, using infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The chemical treatment is aimed at increasing loofah compatibility with the polymeric matrices commonly used in composites. It was shown that the treatment used caused a reduction on the polarity of cellulose molecules, and removed the outer surface layer of loofah fibers, exposing their internal fibrillar structure. As a consequence the treatment promoted an increase on the surface area available to adhesion.
Luffa cylindrica; surface treatment; composites
