220 Green Composites from Natural Resources
hydrocarbon and benzene ring, it can play a role in enhancing the compatibility
between both components. The composite with lignin as a compatibilizer possessed
higher exural properties compared with the control composites. Lignin also reduces
water absorption and swelling thickness of the composites. Thomas and coworkers
(Prasanthkumar and Thomas 1995c; Geethamma et al. 1996; Sreekala and Thomas
2003; Joseph et al. 2002; George et al. 1998a; Pothen et al. 1997) have carried out
systematic studies on the chemical modication of various natural bers such as
sisal, coir, oil palm, banana, and pineapples and its reinforcing effect on various rub-
bers, thermoplastics, and thermosets. In all cases, it ...