Physical and Mechanical Properties of Polymer Eco-Nanocomposites

Abstract

Compared to their synthetic counterparts, natural fibres are an environmentally friendly alternative demonstrating several attractive attributes that include lower density, and lower cost. Vinyl-ester eco-composites reinforced with recycled cellulose fibres (RCF) have been synthesized and characterized. Vinyl-ester eco-nanocomposites dispersed with nano-clay platelets were fabricated and evaluated. The physical and mechanical properties, such as porosities, flexural strength, impact strength, and fracture toughness were evaluated. Results indicate that strength and toughness properties increased for all eco-composites and eco-nanocomposites in dry conditions due to the reinforcement of RCF. However, in wet conditions these mechanical properties for all samples were reduced noticeably due to the weakening of interfacial bond-strength caused by moisture absorption. The fracture surfaces and toughening processes of nano and eco-nanocomposites were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).