Chemical Resistance, Mechanical and Physical Properties of<i>Biofibers</i>-Based Polymer Composites

Abstract

Abstract A study on physical and chemical properties along with mechanical characterization of Hibiscus Sabdariffa fiber-reinforced Phenol–Formaldehyde resin matrix based polymer composites have been reported. Effect of fiber dimension on mechanical properties was evaluated. The interfacial bonding between Hibiscus Sabdariffa fiber and polymer matrix has been found to affect the properties of polymer matrix. It has been observed that particle reinforced polymer composites exhibit better mechanical properties as compared to short and long fiber reinforced polymeric composites. These composites were further subjected to evaluation of morphological, thermal, physical (swelling and moisture absorption) and chemical properties. Keywords: MechanicalMorphological and thermal analysisOptimizationPolymer compositesReinforcements ACKNOWLEDGMENT We express our sincere thanks to Director, National Institute of Technology Hamirpur (H.P.) INDIA for providing the basic laboratory facilities. Financial assistance provided by University Grant Commission (New Delhi) through grant no. F.NO.-30-80/2004 (SR) is highly acknowledged.