Silane‐Coupling Effect on Mechanical and Functional Properties of Glass Fiber‐Reinforced Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Composites

ABSTRACT Glass fiber‐reinforced acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composites are widely employed in various industries owing to their lightweight and high‐strength properties. Nevertheless, achieving sufficient interfacial adhesion between the glass fiber and the ABS matrix poses significant challenges. This research investigates the effects of varying silane concentrations (0.5%, 1%, and 2%) on the mechanical and interfacial properties of the composite. The tests conducted in this study involved tensile strength, Young's modulus, and load–displacement behavior, which revealed that silane treatment enhanced the interfacial bonding between the glass fiber and the ABS matrix, thereby improving stress transfer and overall mechanical performance. The results indicated that 1% silane concentration with a 5 mm 2 mesh exhibited the optimal tensile strength and stiffness, 152 MPa and 12.61 GPa, respectively. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analyses confirmed that the chemical bonding was improved and identified the presence of SiOSi and CN bonds in the treated fibers. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) demonstrated that thermal stability also was enhanced in the treated samples, with a higher onset temperature, 650°C. As a result, (3‐Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES) treatment confirmed that it not only enhanced mechanical properties but also delayed thermal decomposition, thus contributing to improved thermal stability. Silane treatment with optimized concentration significantly boosts the mechanical properties of glass fiber‐reinforced ABS composites and mesh size achieved an ideal balance of strength, stiffness, and flexibility for industrial applications.