Tensile behavior of lignocellulosic fiber reinforced polymer composites: Part I piassava/epoxy

Abstract

The fibers extracted from the piassava palm tree, scientifically known as Attalea funifera, are among the stiffest lignocellulosic fibers being considered for polymer composite reinforcement. Characterization of piassava composites have been carried out for different polymeric matrices and mechanical tests. In this work the tensile properties of DGEBA/TETA epoxy matrix composites reinforced with up to 30% in volume of continuous and aligned piassava fibers were evaluated. Tensile specimens post-cured at 60 o C for 4 hours were room temperature tested and the corresponding fracture analyzed by scanning electrons microscopy. The results showed a decrease in both the tensile strength and the elastic modulus of the composites up to 30% with an increase at 40% of piassava fibers to values above those of the pure epoxy. The fracture analysis revealed a weak fiber/matrix interface, which could account for the comparative low performance of these composite in tensile tests up to 30% of volume fraction. The relatively large amount of stronger piassava fibers accounts for the better performance of the composite with 40% in volume fraction.

Weibull analysis of tensile tested piassava fibers with different diameters

“…The fracture analysis revealed a weak fiber/matrix interface, which could account for the comparative low performance of these composite in tensile tests up to 30% of volume fraction. The relatively large amount of stronger piassava fibers accounts for the better performance of the composite with 40% in volume fraction [21]. This fact will be further discussed in the present work.…”

Abrasion and Physical Properties of Rattan Cane (<i>Calamus deeratus</i>) Fibre Based Epoxy Composites

“…Abrasion Resistance AR%. The difference in weight of the composite sample before and after the determination was recorded and the A. R. deduced from equation (1).…”

Abrasion and Physical Properties of Rattan Cane (<i>Calamus deeratus</i>) Fibre Based Epoxy Composites

“…Natural fibre reinforced polymer composites have being gaining considerable attention as compared to conventional synthetic fibre composites owing to its economic, environmental, technical advantages, suitability and adaptability to different applications and processes [1]. Fibre-reinforced composite materials use fibre materials to mechanically enhance the strength, elasticity and physical appeal of polymer composites.…”