Development and characterization of chemical and fire resistant jute/unsaturated polyester composites

Abstract

Chemical and flame resistance of natural fiber-reinforced composites is a point of concern for industry and researchers, especially for applications involving chemicals and high temperatures. The present work focuses on studying the effect of jute fiber treatment, the addition of ZnO nanoparticles to resin, and use of chemical-resistant resin on the chemical resistance (alkali and acid), fire retardancy and mechanical properties of jute/unsaturated polyester composites. Scouring, mercerization, and hybrid fluorocarbon (HFC) treatments of woven jute fabrics were observed. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were dispersed in normal (Nrml) and chemical resistant (CR) unsaturated polyester resins using a sonicator. Then four layered cross ply symmetric composites were made by hand layup. Chemical resistance, fire retardancy, tensile, flexural, and impact properties were tested using standard test methods. Fiber treatments, chemical resistant resin, and ZnO were found to have a significant effect on the tested parameters. Acids and base solutions, with higher concentrations, caused more damages to the samples, ranging from 1.2% to 7% weight loss. This weight loss was reduced to 0.25% with ZnO treatments. This treatment also enhanced the tensile strength up to 23 MPa. Similarly, HFC treatment increased flexural strength 46 MPa to 54 MPa.