Abstract
A basic characterization of novel epoxy matrix composites incorporated with up to 40 vol% of processed leaf fibers from the Copernicia prunifera palm tree, known as carnauba fibers, was performed. The tensile properties for the composite reinforced with 40 vol% of carnauba fibers showed an increase (40%) in the tensile strength and (69%) for the elastic modulus. All composites presented superior elongation values in comparison to neat epoxy. Izod impact tests complemented by fibers/matrix interfacial strength evaluation by pullout test and Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) analysis revealed for the first time a significant reinforcement effect (> 9 times) caused by the carnauba fiber to polymer matrix. Additional thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG) showed the onset of thermal degradation for the composites (326 ~ 306 °C), which represents a better thermal stability than the plain carnauba fiber (267 °C) but slightly lower than that of the neat epoxy (342 °C). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) disclosed an endothermic peak at 63 °C for the neat epoxy associated with the glass transition temperature (Tg). DSC endothermic peaks for the composites, between 73 to 103 °C, and for the plain carnauba fibers, 107 °C, are attributed to moisture release. Dynamic mechanical analysis confirms Tg of 64 °C for the neat epoxy and slightly higher composite values (82–84 °C) due to the carnauba fiber interference with the epoxy macromolecular chain mobility. Both by its higher impact resistance and thermal behavior, the novel carnauba fibers epoxy composites might be considered a viable substitute for commonly used glass fiber composites.
Highlights
Sustainable action to mitigate worldwide pollution and climate changes are promoting the use of natural materials in the substitution for synthetic ones
Pullout tests provided a critical embedded length of 6.79 mm for the carnauba fiber in the to those presented by other natural lignocellulosic fibers (NLFs)
Epoxy composites reinforced with carnauba fibers showed higher tensile strength values to those presented by other NLFs
Summary
Sustainable action to mitigate worldwide pollution and climate changes are promoting the use of natural materials in the substitution for synthetic ones. A typical example is the use of fibers extracted from plants replacing glass fibers as reinforcement in polymer matrix composites [1,2,3]. Composites reinforcement with natural lignocellulosic fibers (NLFs) are likely to be environmentally friendly than glass fiber composites (fiberglass) in terms of biodegradability and reduced process energy [1]. Polymers 2020, 12, x equipments, which contribute to their cost effectiveness [4]. Another relevant advantage is the social and nonabrasive to processing which contribute to their cost effectiveness [4] Another benefit since, around the world,equipments, many NLFs are cultivated in developing regions and represent a major relevant advantage is the social benefit since, around the world, many
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