Epoxy matrix composites reinforced with recycled cellulose fibre (RCF) were fabricated and characterized with respect to their flexural and impact properties. Reinforcement of the epoxy by RCF resulted in a significant increase in the strain at failure, fracture toughness and impact toughness but only a moderate increase in flexural strength and flexural modulus. The effect of accelerated exposure to seawater on the flexural and impact properties was also investigated. The salient toughening mechanisms and crack-tip failure processes were identified and discussed in light of observed microstructures, in particular the orientation of RCF sheets to the applied load.

Epoxy composites reinforced with recycled cellulose fibre (RCF) have been synthesized and characterized. The reinforcement by RCF has resulted in a significant increase in the strain at break, fracture toughness and impact toughness but moderate increase in flexural strength and flexural modulus. The effect of seawater soaking on the flexural and impact properties has also been investigated. The micromechanisms of toughening and crack-tip failure processes are identified and discussed in the light of observed microstructures from in-situ and ex-situ fracture.