Table 1. Specimen codes for the various chemical treatments employed

Designation of natural fibers	Chemical treatment with duration
RG	Untreated
TG3	3% NaOH for 4 h
TG6	6% NaOH for 4 h
TG9	9% NaOH for 4 h
TG3S	3% NaOH for 4 h + Silane 2 h
TG6S	6% NaOH for 4 h + Silane 2 h
TG9S	9% NaOH for 4 h + Sialne 2 h