Abstract
The mesocarp of Bertholletia excelsa is a rich source of inspiration for strong, stiff and damage-tolerant composites. The bioinspired composites developed here are composed of an epoxy matrix with a 3D printed polylactic acid reinforced with 30% of carbon fiber (PLA-30CF) inspired in fibers, and syntactic foam inspired by sclereids. Monotonic and cyclic four-point bending tests and compact tension fracture toughness tests were carried out assisted by digital image correlation (DIC) to evaluate flexural properties, damage tolerance, and the R-curve of the composite. Its microstructure and fracture surface were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical performance of the bioinspired composite is promising: density of 1.0 g cm−3, flexural apparent elastic modulus of 1.6 GPa, and flexural strength six times higher than the neat epoxy, i.e. 17 MPa. Although the PLA-30CF printed structure led to a rising R-curve, the syntactic foam needs optimization to have a synergistic effect.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
