Evaluation of mechanical properties of alkaline treated natural fiber PMC.

Natural fibres have a lower density and cost than synthetic fibres, making current bio goods light and inexpensive. Due to environmental rules that prohibit the use of toxic ingredients and their carbon footprint, well-exploited synthetic fibres are not as popular as they once were. This study looks at how natural fibres and particles can be used to improve the qualities of currently available polymer matrix materials. Natural fibres such as flax fibre and particles from almond shell were used as reinforcements in this study. The epoxy resin was used to strengthen the fibres and particles, and the laminates were created using a hand layup approach. Chemical treatments with alkaline and acetylene were used to make the fibre and particle surfaces compatible for the hydrophobic resin. The volume % of fibres, particles, and chemical treatments can all be used to classify fabricated laminates. Various test methodologies are required to anticipate the behaviour of bio based products for engineering applications. The ultimate tensile strength and flexural strength of the composite were determined using mechanical properties such as tensile and flexural tests. When compared to other fabricated laminates, the composite of 15% volume with alkaline treated laminate has stronger tensile and flexural strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]