Morphological Characterisation of Natural Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastics (NFRTP) Processed by Extrusion, Compression and Rotational Moulding

Abstract

In this paper we describe a methodology for applying conventional morphological characterization techniques to some of the manufacturing processes of natural fibre reinforced thermoplastics (NFRTP). The composites studied consisted of a matrix of polypropylene or polyethylene, and of discrete jute, sisal and other natural fibres as the reinforcement. Different microscopic techniques have been used to characterize the processing stages and the structure-property relationships during the manufacture of NFRTPs using single screw extrusion, compression and rotational moulding. Important issues in the processing of discrete fibre composites, such as fibre length distributions, fibre orientation and overall fibre dispersion in the matrix have been studied. Transcrystallinity in the case PP/sisal and PP/jute composites has also been reported. In all cases the characterization procedures described here are related to the manufacturing processes studied in each particular case. In fact, a systematic approach to morphological characterization is presented in this study. We believe that all or some of techniques discussed here could be implemented as quality control procedures in the manufacturing of products using NFRTPs.

Morphological and Mechanical Properties of Bilayers Wood-Plastic Composites and Foams Obtained by Rotational Molding

“…Although limited information is available on this process, some studies on rotational molding with natural fibers have been found. Torres and Diaz conducted experiments with natural fibers (jute, sisal, cabuya and coir) with high density polyethylene (HDPE) as the matrix [14]. Ward and Rodrigue used pine fibers with linear medium density polyethylene (LMDPE) [15].…”

Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Maple Reinforced LLDPE Produced by Rotational Moulding: Effect of Fibre Content and Surface Treatment

“…For these materials, their main applications are in transportation, civil infrastructure, sporting goods, packaging, as well as different commercial and engineering applications 8 . One reason for the growing commercial production of polymer composites is the interest being given to natural fibres (lignocellulosic) because they are ecologically and toxicologically harmless, biodegradable, CO 2 neutral, low cost and lightweight 9–11 .…”

“…But the polar and hydrophilic natural fibres are incompatible with most polymers which are non-polar and hydrophobic. This incompatibility leads to poor interface quality and poor mechanical performances 10–14 . But good interfacial adhesion (compatibility) between natural fibres and polymer matrices can be achieved by using physical or chemical surface treatments 13–15 .…”

“…But good interfacial adhesion (compatibility) between natural fibres and polymer matrices can be achieved by using physical or chemical surface treatments 13–15 . This can also lead to other advantages like improved mechanical properties, moisture resistance and better fibres distribution allowing the possibility to use higher fibre contents in rotational moulding 9–16 . To this purpose, maleated copolymers (coupling agents) were developed as these molecules provide efficient interaction with the functional surface of the fibres and the matrix.…”

Karakteristik Mekanik Komposit Lamina Serat Rami Epoksi Sebagai Bahan Alternatif Soket Prostesis

“…Pengembangan prostesis atas lutut dengan menggunakan bahan komposit dengan serat alam belum dilakukan. Jika dilihat dari potensi serat alam yang besar di Indonesia seperti serat rami, dan isu tentang penggunaan bahan-bahan alami yang dapat didaur ulang dan ramah lingkungan, maka pengembangan prostesis atas lutut dengan bahan komposit serat rami mempunyai peluang yang cukup besar untuk diteliti dan dikembangkan lebih lanjut [7].…”