Methodological analysis of composites Green Polyurethane Resin reinforced with jute fabric

Abstract

Currently, the scientific community is focusing to develop news materials that shall be environmentally friendly; this mindset is growing and leading to a huge increase in new papers on that effort. The main idea in our research field is to discover new eco-friendly composites that can replace some synthetic originated or non-renewable sources. For this, the castor oil based polyurethane matrix represents an ecologically correct option for the use of polymeric matrices. Moreover, the use of natural fibers instead of synthetic ones makes an even greener composite. This research sought to analyze vegetable polyurethane resin from castor oil as matrix reinforced by jute fabric. The fabric apparent density was determined by Archimedes method, obtaining a value of 2.4 g/cm3. Subsequently, samples of the composite were made in open silicone rubber mold for the charpy impact test and compared with specimens made in a closed metallic mold under pressure. The composites received 0–6 layers of jute fabric. As a result, the better impact resistance was with open mold reached a notch resistance of 226.34 J/m for 2-layer composites. In addition, the values of 3–6 layers in open mold were significantly better than those of closed molds, varying from 20 % up to 174 % better. The pressing step in a closed mold is not necessary; consequently, we saved money and time to manufacture this type of composites, for these purposes.