Characterization and Properties of Recycled Cellulose Fibre- Reinforced Epoxy-Hybrid Clay Nanocomposites

Abstract

In this paper, epoxy eco-composites reinforced with recycled cellulose fiber (RCF) and nano-fillers such as nano-clay platelets (30B) and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), have been fabricated and investigated. The influences of RCF/nano-filler dispersion on the microstructure, physical and mechanical characteristics have been characterized. Results indicate that flexural strength decreased for the majority of study samples due to the poor dispersion of nano-fillers and the existence of voids within the samples. In contrast, impact toughness and fracture toughness were improved for all reinforced samples. The effect of water absorption was positive in terms of enhancing the impact toughness of the composites. Addition of nanoclay was found to increase the porosities of all nanocomposites.