Fabrication and Properties of Recycled Cellulose Fibre-Reinforced Epoxy Composites

Low, It Meng; Somers, J.; Kho, H; Davies, Ian; Latella, B.

doi:10.1163/092764409X12477417562210

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Authors

Low, It Meng

Somers, J.

Kho, H

Davies, Ian

Latella, B.

Date

2009

Type

Journal Article

Metadata

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Citation

Low, I.M. and Somers, J. and Kho, H. and Davies, I. and Latella, B. 2009. Fabrication and Properties of Recycled Cellulose Fibre-Reinforced Epoxy Composites. Composite Interfaces. 16 (7-9): pp. 659-669.

Source Title

Composite Interfaces

DOI

10.1163/092764409X12477417562210

ISSN

0927-6440

School

Department of Physics and Astronomy

URI

http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/33119

Collection

Curtin Research Publications

Abstract

Epoxy matrix composites reinforced with recycled cellulose fibre (RCF) were fabricated and characterized with respect to their flexural and impact properties. Reinforcement of the epoxy by RCF resulted in a significant increase in the strain at failure, fracture toughness and impact toughness but only a moderate increase in flexural strength and flexural modulus. The effect of accelerated exposure to seawater on the flexural and impact properties was also investigated. The salient toughening mechanisms and crack-tip failure processes were identified and discussed in light of observed microstructures, in particular the orientation of RCF sheets to the applied load.