Long and Short Human Hair Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites: Mechanical Properties for Engineering Applications

Abstract

Nowadays, biofibre-reinforced polymeric materials have become a topic of interest for researchers in the field of materials science. Not only are they low-cost to produce, but the composites have high mechanical strength properties. In some cases, these polymer composites can even replace metallic structures, making them an environmentally friendly solution. The aim of this study is to evaluate the mechanical behaviour of a polyester matrix composite material reinforced with human hair fibres. To this end, composite samples of different fibre sizes, orientations and volume fractions were produced. Subsequently, to obtain the most suitable combination, these specimens were tested under the requirements of ASTM 3039, ASTM 7264 and ASTM 5628 for tensile, flexural and impact, respectively. As a result, the first group of specimens composed of a volume fraction of 70% matrix and 30% reinforcement, with a longitudinal fibre orientation at 0°, stands out from the rest of the specimens by presenting a maximum tensile strength, a maximum flexural strength and an impact energy of 28.472 MPa, 66.24 MPa and 1.371 J, respectively. In conclusion, compared to other types of composite materials, the human hair-based composite material shows surprising potential as a promising ecological solution for applications in the furniture and automotive industry due to its high flexural strength.