Characteristics of murta bast fiber reinforced epoxy composites

Abstract

The growing global concern over environment protection has led to the application of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites as alternative materials in manufacturing sectors. Various natural fibers are therefore being explored for reinforcement of polymer matrices. In the present work, murta bast fibers of varying length and weight percent are mixed randomly with the epoxy matrix and the composites are prepared from these mixtures by using the hand lay-up method. The composites are characterized on the basis of density, thermal gravimetric analysis, infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, tensile strength, flexural strength, compressive strength, impact strength, and Rockwell hardness studies. Tensile, flexural, and compressive moduli of the composites are also determined. The tensile strength of the composite was analyzed in the light of the different analytical models. Composites containing 30 weight % fibers of length 25 or 35 mm have the optimum mechanical properties. Murta bast fiber has the characteristics to become a good natural material for reinforcement.

Influence of alkali treatment on the interfacial shear strength of Agave lechuguilla fiber and its significance as a reinforcing material in polymer composites for mechanical applications

“…[ 5 ] The easy availability, biodegradability, minimum cost, low density, high specific strength, and non‐toxicity are some attractive features of natural fiber. [ 6–8 ] In recent years, natural fibers like luffa, [ 9 ] pistachio shell particles, [ 10 ] rice straw, [ 11 ] sea purslane, [ 12 ] groundnut shell powder, [ 13 ] kenaf, [ 14 ] hemp, [ 15 ] jute, [ 16 ] limonia acidissima shell powder, [ 17 ] and tamarind powder [ 18 ] have proved their potential as a reinforcement material in different polymer matrices as reported by the researchers. Despite several attractive properties, the natural fibers are not free from a specific defect, that is, poor compatibility between fiber and matrix.…”