Showing papers on "Natural fiber published in 2013"
TL;DR: In this article, a sisal-jute-glass fiber reinforced polyester composites is developed and their mechanical properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength and impact strength are evaluated by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Abstract: The composite materials are replacing the traditional materials, because of its superior properties such as high tensile strength, low thermal expansion, high strength to weight ratio. The developments of new materials are on the anvil and are growing day by day. Natural fiber composites such as sisal and jute polymer composites became more attractive due to their high specific strength, lightweight and biodegradability. Mixing of natural fiber with Glass-Fiber Reinforced Polymers (GFRPs) are finding increased applications. In this study, sisal–jute–glass fiber reinforced polyester composites is developed and their mechanical properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength and impact strength are evaluated. The interfacial properties, internal cracks and internal structure of the fractured surfaces are evaluated by using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The results indicated that the incorporation of sisal–jute fiber with GFRP can improve the properties and used as a alternate material for glass fiber reinforced polymer composites.
588 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors studied the mechanical properties of unidirectional flax and glass fiber reinforced hybrid composites with the aim of investigation on the hybrid effects of the composites made by natural and synthetic fibers.
306 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, three different types of natural fibers (nettle, grewia optiva and sisal) were incorporated into PLA polymer to develop laminated composites using a hot compression technique.
239 citations
TL;DR: The natural fiber-reinforced polymer composite materials offered extensive range of properties which are suitable for large number of engineering application as mentioned in this paper, and the natural fibers have been abundantl...
Abstract: The natural fiber-reinforced polymer composite materials offered extensive range of properties which are suitable for large number of engineering application. The natural fibers have been abundantl...
237 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a new set of natural fiber based polymer composites consisting of bidirectional jute fiber mat as reinforcement and epoxy resin as matrix material were fabricated using hand lay-up technique and characterized with respect to their physical and mechanical properties.
183 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method was utilized in the selection of the most suitable natural fiber to be hybridized with glass fiber reinforced polymer composites for the design of a passenger vehicle center lever parking brake component.
179 citations
TL;DR: Thermal characterization showed enhanced thermal stability of celluloses microfibers compared to raw fibers, which has been further confirmed by SEM, XRD and FTIR results.
142 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of jute as a natural fiber reinforcement on the setting and hydration behavior of cement has been investigated using a variety of analytical techniques including thermal, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and free lime estimation by titration.
Abstract: The present investigation deals with the effect of jute as a natural fiber reinforcement on the setting and hydration behavior of cement. The addition of jute fiber in cement matrix increases the setting time and standard water consistency value. The hydration characteristics of fiber reinforced cement were investigated using a variety of analytical techniques including thermal, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and free lime estimation by titration. Through these analyses it was demonstrated that the hydration kinetics of cement is retarded with the increase in jute contents in cement matrix. A model has been proposed to explain the retarded hydration kinetics of jute fiber reinforced cement composites. The prolonged setting of these fiber reinforced cement composites would be beneficial for applications where the premixed cement aggregates are required to be transported from a distant place to the construction site.
135 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, Sisal and banana (hybrid), Roselle and banana and sisal composite at dry and wet conditions were studied using Brinell hardness testing machine and micro structure of the specimens were scanned by the scanning electron microscope.
Abstract: The invention is an effort to utilize the advantages offered by renewable resources for the development of composite materials based on polymer and particles of natural fibers for Conservation of natural resources. In this research, natural fibers like Sisal (Agave sisalana), Banana (Musa sepientum) and Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), Sisal and banana (hybrid), Roselle and banana (hybrid) and Roselle and sisal (hybrid) are fabricated with bio epoxy resin using molding method. The applications of these materials require a sustainable approach to creating green products. Green materials are very important to form environment friendly from renewable resources and decrease the use of petroleum based chemicals. Nowadays natural fibers form an interesting alternative for the most widely applied fibre in the composite technology, glass. The use of fibers like sisal, Roselle and banana in this industry so far is small since availability of a durable semi-finished product with constant quality is often a problem. Recent research and development have shown that these aspects can be improved considerably. Knowing that natural fibers are cheap and have a better stiffness per weight than glass, which results in lighter components, the grown interest in natural fibers is clear. Secondly, the environmental impact is smaller since the natural fibre can be thermally recycled and fibers come from a renewable resource. Their moderate mechanical properties restrain the fibers from using them in high-tech applications, but for many reasons they can compete with glass fibers. In this paper the optimum mixing of fiber and resin is achieved by using Taguchi method. In this work, tensile and hardness of Sisal and banana (hybrid), Roselle and banana (hybrid and Roselle and sisal (hybrid) composite at dry and wet conditions were studied. Hardness test were conducted using Brinell hardness testing machine. In this work micro structure of the specimens are scanned by the Scanning Electron Microscope. The disclosure includes the process to make the composite and also the variety of products in automobile accessories.
122 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of fiber treatment (alkalization and heat treatment) and adding a compatibilizer (maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene, MAPP) on the properties of the sisal fiber/polypropylene composites were comparatively studied.
Abstract: Sisal fiber (SF)/polypropylene (PP) composites were prepared at fiber content of 10, 20, and 30 wt.% and their mechanical, thermal, morphological, and water absorption properties were characterized. The effects of fiber treatment (alkalization and heat treatment) and adding a compatibilizer (maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene, MAPP) on the properties of the PP composites were comparatively studied. The fiber treatment and adding MAPP led to an improvement of mechanical properties, cellulose decomposition temperature, and water resistance of the PP composites. SEM micrographs revealed that the interfacial modification enhanced the interfacial adhesion between the fiber and the PP matrix. Alkalization and heat treatment provided comparable enhancement in the mechanical properties of the sisal fiber/PP composites. Adding MAPP showed the most effective improvement of the mechanical properties of the PP composites. With increasing fiber content, tensile strength and modulus of the PP composites increased but impact strength and elongation at break decreased. Water absorption of PP composites also increased with fiber content.
118 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of the interphase properties, resulting from well controlled surface treatment of the natural fibers, on the behavior of a ductile polymer matrix composite under quasi-static loading using the essential work of fracture criteria was analyzed and discussed.
Book•
31 Dec 2013
TL;DR: In this paper, the introduction to wood and natural fiber composites book is presented and the system of this book of course will be much easier to get the book by on-line.
Abstract: Reading is a hobby to open the knowledge windows. Besides, it can provide the inspiration and spirit to face this life. By this way, concomitant with the technology development, many companies serve the e-book or book in soft file. The system of this book of course will be much easier. No worry to forget bringing the introduction to wood and natural fiber composites book. You can open the device and get the book by on-line.
TL;DR: Alfa leaves, rush stems, palm leaflets and date palm wood are important renewable raw materials available in Tunisia where they are commonly used in handcrafts (like basketwork and carpets for example) as discussed by the authors.
TL;DR: In this article, the value of the fiber volume fraction is determined considering fibrous structure constituent, random fiber, yarns or fabric, and a rule of mixtures is used to derive the mechanical properties for composites.
Abstract: In the latest years industry is attempting to decrease the dependence on petroleum based fuels and products due to the increased environmental consciousness. This is leading to the need to investigate environmentally friendly, sustainable materials to replace existing ones, and to solve the problems of recycling of agriculture waste. We are trying to understand composites due to their high potential as a material with suitable strength, low weight and low deformation. Fiber and epoxy as lamina are used to form composite laminates with desired directional properties. Mechanical properties for composites are derived starting from properties of fiber and matrix, using the rule of mixtures, and the fiber volume fraction plays a significant role in the determination of the mechanical properties. In this work the value of the fiber volume fraction is determined considering fibrous structure constituent, random fiber, yarns or fabric.
TL;DR: In this article, a strong continuous shear flow was imposed on the melt of ramie fiber reinforced poly(lactic acid) (PLA) biocomposites during practical processing.
Abstract: A strong continuous shear flow was imposed on the melt of ramie fiber reinforced poly(lactic acid) (PLA) biocomposites during practical processing. Classic shish-kebabs and typical transcrystallinity were simultaneously formed in the sheared PLA/ramie fiber samples, which were closely related to formation of row-nuclei induced by the strong shear flow that was further amplified by incorporated natural fibers. Interestingly, some nano-sized ultrafine ramie fibers tended to absorb and stabilize the as-formed row-nuclei, which subsequently grew into the unexpected hybrid shish-kebabs. We proposed that the formation of hybrid shish-kebabs underwent the process of “capturing extended chain bundles for hybrid shishes” with the applied shear flow acting as the driving force. Further attempts were made to understand their contribution to the mechanical performances. With the existence of transcrystallinity, PLA/fiber interfacial adhesion was considerably enhanced. Meanwhile, positive reinforcing and toughening ef...
TL;DR: In this article, the chemical treatment of banana fiber (Musa sapientum) using sodium hypochlorite NaClO/H2O (1:1) at 60°C is discussed.
Abstract: Environmental consciousness and increasing awareness of green technology have stirred the entire gamut of industry to move toward new materials instead of using synthetic polymeric fibers. Natural fiber can be a good substitute as they are available in fibrous form at low cost. In this study, the chemical treatment of banana fiber (Musa sapientum) using sodium hypochlorite NaClO/H2O (1:1) at 60°C is discussed. The purpose of chemical treatment is to improve the fiber-matrix compatibility, interfacial strength, physical, and thermal properties, etc. The chemical composition of fibers on treatment indicated increase of cellulose content and decrease of noncellulosic material. The changes due to chemical treatment were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared and X-ray diffraction methods. Scanning electron microscope studies revealed the changes in surface morphology after chemical treatment. And also, the treated fibers showed reduced water uptake and improved thermal properties.
TL;DR: In this paper, a mixture of kenaf, flax, and hemp fibers were added to nylon 6 using melt mixing to produce compounded pellets, and the results of tensile and flexural modulus of elasticity (FMOE) were obtained.
Abstract: In this study, engineering thermoplastic composites were prepared from natural fiber blend–filled nylon 6. Natural fiber blend from a mixture of kenaf, flax, and hemp fibers were added to nylon 6 using melt mixing to produce compounded pellets. The natural fibers/ nylon6 composites with varying concentrations of natural fibers (from 5 to 20 wt%) were prepared by injection molding. The tensile and flexural properties of the nylon 6 composites were increased significantly with the addition of the natural fiber blend. The maximum strength and modulus of elasticity for the nylon 6 composites were achieved at a natural fiber blend weight fraction of 20%. The Izod impact strength of composites decreased with the incorporation of natural fibers without any surface treatments and coupling agent. The melt flow index (MFI) also decreased with increasing natural fiber blend loading. The results of tensile and flexural modulus of elasticity (FMOE) are in accordance with the rheological data from the MFI measurements. The increase in the tensile and flexural properties indicated that efficient bonding occurred between the natural fibers and nylon 6. No fiber pullout was observed during the scanning electron microscopic analysis of the fracture surfaces. The higher mechanical results with lower density demonstrate that a natural fiber blend can be used as a sufficient reinforcing material for low-cost, eco-friendly composites in the automotive industry and in other applications such as the building and construction industries, packaging, consumer products, etc.POLYM. COMPOS., 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
TL;DR: In this article, a systematic study has been carried out to investigate the mechanical and physical properties of jute, bamboo and coir (brown and white) single fibers, and the tensile properties (tensile strength, Young's modulus and strain to failure) were determined by varying span length.
Abstract: A systematic study has been carried out to investigate the mechanical and physical properties of jute, bamboo and coir (brown and white) single fibers. The tensile properties (tensile strength, Young’s modulus and strain to failure) were determined by varying span length. Scanning electron microscopic analysis was also carried out to determine the physical properties of fibers in order to correlate with its strength, Young’s modulus and strain to failure. The Young’s modulus and strain to failure were corrected using newly developed equations. The study revealed that with increasing test span length the Young’s modulus increased and tensile strength as well as strain to failure decreased. This is because no extensometer could be used in this test set-up and machine displacement (denoted by α) was used for the modulus determination. It is also attributed that larger span length helps to minimize the machine displacement compared to smaller ones due to the reduced relative effect of slippage in the clamps. Among all fibers, the Young’s modulus of bamboo fiber was the highest. Jute fiber had smoother surface compared to other three examined fibers.
TL;DR: In this paper, a double-layer system based on a biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoates blend was obtained by compression molding, where a thin halogen-free flame-retarded layer was located at the top of a kenaf-fiber reinforced core.
Abstract: The potential of a multi-component laminate composite material in terms of improved flame retardancy and adequate mechanical performance is discussed. A double-layer system based on a biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoates blend was obtained by compression molding. A thin halogen-free flame-retarded layer was located at the top of a kenaf-fiber-reinforced core. Kenaf fibers acted as a carbonization compound promoting charring and building up a superficial insulating layer that protected the material throughout combustion. The impact of different skin/core thickness on the thermal and fire properties was investigated. Synergistic flame retardancy occurs in the cone calorimeter. Chemical and fire investigations confirmed a changed pyrolysis behavior in multicomponent materials. Promising results are obtained in terms of mechanical performance: higher flexural and impact properties were observed in the single fiber-reinforced layer.
TL;DR: In these times of continuous increases in the price of crude oil, materials from renewable resources, also called biomaterials or "green" materials, are presently gaining in importance worldwide as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Materials from renewable resources – also called biomaterials or ‘green’ materials – are presently gaining in importance worldwide. In these times of continuous increases in the price of crude oil ...
TL;DR: In this article, the impact strength of natural fiber reinforced PLA composite decreased with the increased of fiber content, and the maximum reduction in impact strength was 23.8, 27.3 and 56.2% for bamboo fiber, vetiver grass fiber and coconut fiber, respectively.
TL;DR: The power of S-FTIR microspectroscopy for studying biopolymers provides an explanation for the supercontraction behavior of certain animal silks and is likely to facilitate understanding and optimization of postdrawing used in the conjunction with the wet-spinning of silk fibers from regenerated silk solutions.
TL;DR: In this article, the tensile properties of natural fiber reinforced polylactic acid composites were investigated and the effects of flexible epoxy surface treatment on tensile strength improvement were dependent upon the type of natural fibers.
TL;DR: In this paper, a low cost polymer composite using brown grass flower broom reinforcement is prepared, which has the lowest porosity, homogeneous surface structure, and the greatest interface bonding.
Abstract: A novel low cost polymer composite using brown grass flower broom reinforcement is prepared. The prepared polymer composite has the lowest porosity, homogeneous surface structure, and the greatest interface bonding. From the physico-mechanical characterization such as: hardness measurement, density measurement, void fraction or porosity measurement, and flexural strength measurement, it is found that the prepared composite is of light weight and high strength. Again, from dielectric behaviour of this polymer composite, it is found that this material has an efficiency that is considered as a high valued marketable product. As the composite is made using bio-materials from local resources, its cost is less compared to other polymer composites available today.
TL;DR: In this paper, the mechanical properties of the natural fiber-reinforced hybrid composite materials are investigated in the structural applications due to its enhanced load-bearing capabilities, which are extensively used in structural applications.
Abstract: Composite materials are extensively used in the structural applications due to its enhanced load-bearing capabilities. Mostly, the mechanical properties of the natural fiber-reinforced hybrid compo...
TL;DR: In this article, the overall mechanical, thermal and water absorption properties of PP and PBS composites prepared with 30 vol.% short kenaf fibers (KFs) using a twin-screw extruder were investigated.
Abstract: The use of composites made from non-biodegradable conventional plastic materials (e.g., polypropylene, PP) is creating global environmental concern. Biodegradable plastics such as poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) are sought after to reduce plastic waste accumulation. Unfortunately, these types of plastics are very costly; therefore, natural lignocellulosic fibers are incorporated to reduce the cost. Kenaf fibers are also incorporated into PP and PBS for reinforcing purposes and they have low densities, high specific properties and renewable sourcing. However without good compatibilization, the interfacial adhesion between the matrix and the fibers is poor due to differences in polarity between the two materials. Maleic anhydride-grafted compatibilizers may be introduced into the system to improve the matrix-fiber interactions. The overall mechanical, thermal and water absorption properties of PP and PBS composites prepared with 30 vol.% short kenaf fibers (KFs) using a twin-screw extruder were being investigated in this study. The flexural properties for both types of composites were enhanced by the addition of compatibilizer, with improvements of 56 and 16 % in flexural strength for the PP/KF and PBS/KF composites, respectively. Good matrix-fiber adhesion was also observed by scanning electron microscopy. However, the thermal stability of the PBS/KF composites was lower than that of the PP/KF composites. This result was confirmed by both DSC and TGA thermal analysis tests. The water absorption at equilibrium of a PBS composite filled with KFs is inherently lower than of a PP/KF composite because the water molecules more readily penetrate the PP composites through existing voids between the fibers and the matrix. Based on this research, it can be concluded that PBS/KF composites are good candidates for replacing PP/KF composites in applications whereby biodegradability is essential and no extreme thermal and moisture exposures are required.
TL;DR: In this paper, natural fiber obtained from a ladies finger plant was chemically treated separately using alkali (2% NaOH), chromium sulfate (4% ), and chromium sulphate and sodium bicarbonate(4% ).
Abstract: In present research, natural fiber obtained from ladies finger plant was chemically treated separately using alkali (2% NaOH), chromium sulfate (4% ), and chromium sulfate and sodium bicarbonate (4% ). Both raw and chemically treated fibers were subsequently characterized using mechanical (tensile), structural (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy), and thermal (thermogravimetric) analysis. Fourier analysis showed the presence of (−OH) group in the ladies plant fiber. Scanning electron micrographs revealed rougher surface in case of alkali treated fiber, while thin coating layer was formed on the fiber surface during other two treatments. Tensile test on ladies finger single fiber was carried out by varying span length. The tensile strength and Young's modulus values were found to be increased after chemical treatment. For both raw and chemically treated fibers, Young's modulus increased and tensile strength decreased with increase in span length. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated the same level of thermal stability for both raw and treated ladies finger fibers.
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of fiber content on mechanical properties of composite was investigated and found that tensile strength and impact strength at maximum fiber content were 2.55 and 4.2 times to that of pure resin, respectively.
TL;DR: In this article, the effect of alkaline treatment at room temperature on Raffia textilis fiber microstructure, structure, composition, thermal behavior, mechanical properties, and color was evaluated.
Abstract: The Raffia textilis fiber has a specific strength of 660 MPacm3/g and scales and hollows on its surface. Thus, this fiber is a potential composite reinforcement. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of alkaline treatment at room temperature on its microstructure, structure, composition, thermal behavior, mechanical properties, and color. To this end, slack raw fibers were soaked in three NaOH solutions (2.5%, 5%, and 10% by weight) for 12 hours. SEM observations revealed that fibers got more and more clean and smooth when the solution concentration was increased. In comparison with the raw fiber, it was found that fiber treated with 5% NaOH solution exhibited enhanced tensile strength (129%) and strain to failure (175%), in addition to increased yellowness, redness, and thermal stability. Contrariwise, the Young modulus and lightness slightly decreased with the treatment. The Fourier transform infrared spectra and the XRD patterns suggested an incipient allotropic transformation of cellulose for 10% NaOH-treated fibers. These changes could be explained by the gradual dissolution of non-cellulosic components as revealed by the Fourier transform infrared attenuated total reflection spectra and thermal analysis.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors focused on the properties of OPF fiber and gathered mechanical properties reported by other researchers in terms of tensile and flexural properties and chemical surface modification methods to solve the interfacial bonding of fiber and polymer.
Abstract: According to environmental concerns and financial problems, natural fibers have become interesting and fascinating nowadays to be used as an industrial material and structural material for rehabilitating of structures. Oil palm empty fruit bunch fiber (OPF) is a natural fiber which is found a lot in tropical areas. Scientists have used OPF fiber with many types of resins such as epoxy, polypropylene, polyester, and phenol formaldehyde. Therefore, this paper focused on the properties of OPF fiber and gathered mechanical properties of OPF composites (OPF as reinforcement of polymer) reported by other researchers in terms of tensile and flexural properties. Furthermore, the chemical surface modification methods to solve the interfacial bonding of fiber and polymer were mentioned. In addition, the results of hybrid composites of OPF were also discussed in this paper. Meanwhile, the results of composites were compared to pure resin properties and also the stress-strain diagram and internal strain energy of composites were considered. Besides, the effects of adding OPF to other composites to make a new hybrid composite were indicated. Finally, it is clear that the use of oil palm fiber composites for structural elements for bearing loads is not recommended but the usage of OPF composites for secondary structural elements may be recommended due to future researches.