Reinforced Fiber Polymer Composite with Palmyra Fiber and Waste Polythene

Abstract

Natural fiber, a preferable replacement, is the most commonly used fiber in the composites industry. Most businesses employ natural fibers since they are equipped with a sustainability value and are increasingly evaluated as reinforcement for polymer-matrix composites. This study attempts to use thermoplastic/Palmyra fiber composites in the construction industry specifically in ceiling and wall panels. Before starting the material development process and applications for this fiber, it is important to consider the physical and mechanical properties of Palmyra fibers. Testing was conducted to determine the fiber's diameter, density, water absorption, and tensile strength. The density and diameter of Palmyra fiber were determined using the psychometric method and an optical microscope, respectively. An electronic tensometer was used to measure Young's modulus and tensile strength of the Palmyra fiber. The average diameter and density of Palmyra fibers were obtained as 523.01 μm and 0.88 g/cm3, and the fiber’s Young's modulus and ultimate tensile strength were 53.94 MPa and 6.15 GPa, respectively. The 2.5 mm and 3.2 mm thick composite sheets were produced using a hot press machine, varying Palmyra fiber weight, and an applicable polymer matrix. Tensile and bending tests were attained to evaluate the mechanical characteristics of the composite material at this stage. ASTM D3039 and ASTM D790 were followed for testing the composite properties. When the Palmyra weight fraction varied from 10% of the total weight, the maximum tensile strength and the maximum bending strength were 14.778 N/mm2 and 19.478 N/mm2, respectively. The relevant mechanical properties differ from those of commercially available materials.