Showing papers on "SISAL published in 1979"
TL;DR: In this article, a model of the flexural behaviour of a cement-based composite reinforced with low modulus fibres is presented, and the model predicts large increases in flexural strength of such composites under certain conditions.
29 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, Sisal (Agave sisalana) fibers were graft copolymerized with certain vinyl monomers (methyl acrylate, ethyl acryl and methyl methacrylate) using gamma irradiation and ceric ammonium nitrate as initiation techniques and the results derived from the SEM observations on transverse sections of the grafted fibers were supplemented by information obtained by polarized light microscopy.
Abstract: Sisal (Agave sisalana) fibers were graft copolymerized with certain vinyl monomers (methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate and methyl methacrylate) using gamma irradiation and ceric ammonium nitrate as initiation techniques Examinations of the surface topology and the internal structure of the grafted fibers made by scanning electron microscopy The results derived from the SEM observations on transverse sections of the grafted fibers were supplemented by information obtained by polarized light microscopy Polymer was deposited not only on the surface of the fiber substrate, but also in the lumen, the middle lamellae, and throughout the cell wall network of the multicellular aggregates The degree of polymer inclusion in the lumen (which is the most conspicuous of all the available internal sites) was found to depend on the percentage graft copolymer add-on, as well as on the previous history of the fiber (natural or chemically modified) The mechanical properties of the grafted fibers were investigated (by means of an Instron tensile tester)
12 citations
TL;DR: Although there was no change over the working shift in the group making sisal rope, the control group did show a significant increase in lung function over the same period, which suggests that an effect attributable to the lubricant and sisal dust did exist.
Abstract: Lung function was measured by spirometry in 66 workers in a sisal ropemaking factory, and in their matched controls. The major atmospheric contaminant was the lubricant (or a component part thereof) used to soften the fibre. The concentration of airborne matter was generally less than 1 mug m--3. There was no difference in lung function between the two groups before the start of the working shift, that is, the mixture of softening lubricant and sisal caused no long-term effects. Although there was no change in lung function over the working shift in the group making sisal rope, the control group did show a significant increase in lung function over the same period. This suggests that an effect attributable to the lubricant and sisal dust did exist. In previous studies little mention has been made of the softeners used in the processing of sisal fibre. These additives may exert a significant effect on ventilatory capacity and may act in conjunction with sisal dust.
10 citations