Mechanical Properties Optimization of the Elastomeric Matrix Reinforced Composite Material with Cabuya Fiber, Using the DOE/Complete Factorial Design and Desirability Function

Abstract

The development of green composites to obtain scientific, technological and industrial application benefits, and evaluate different mechanical properties of those materials; as well as the great growth and the global market demand being considered as lightly and low manufacture cost materials, that has mechanical and physical properties equal or higher that will replace the materials that are traditionally seen in industry. Applying an analysis based in the experiments design (DOE) plus experimental essays, a mechanical characterization of composite material latex reinforced with short cabuya fiber was performed with random orientation and volumetric fractions of 20% latex - 80% cabuya fiber, 30% latex-70% cabuya fiber, 45% latex – 55% cabuya fiber; for the different combinations. Of the essays that were performed it was determined the test tubes that show better results in its mechanical properties through the UNE Norm (Tensil UNE - ISO 37, Compression UNE - ISO 7743, Strength UNE - ISO 48). With the analysis developed by the statistical methodology based on the complete general factorial design and the desirability function it was able to determine the best mechanical characteristics of the composite material that will be used, was the composite formed by fiber with 1 centimeter of length and a volumetric fraction of 20% Latex – 80% Cabuya.