Polymer Science and Technology

Biography

Biography: Essolé PADAYODI

Abstract

The properties of biosourced composite materials depend not only on the properties of the individual components but also on their interfacial adhesion. But the incompatibility between the hydrophilic natural fibers and the hydrophobic polymer matrix weakens the fiber-matrix adhesion. The objective of this study is to improve the compatibility between flax fibers and polyester matrix by a preliminary treatment of cellulosic fibers by Corona discharge. Two types of composites were produced by infusion with a stacking of [0/90] layers oriented in both warp and weft directions: the composite made of a flax fibers reinforced polyester resin (Vf ~ 61± 2 vol. %) and the composite made of a glass fibers fabric reinforced polyester resin (Vf ~ 63 ± 2 vol. %). The flax fibers and the glass fibers were previously dried at 60°C during 24 hours and treated by the Corona discharge by means of a low frequency high voltage generator.

The mechanical properties of composites reinforced with treated and untreated flax fibers and glass fibers are compared: the longitudinal elastic modulus EL and the yield stress XT of the flax/polyester composite increase significantly (+20% to +38%) whereas those of glass/polyester composite increase less importantly. FT-IR spectra analysis, topography analysis and SEM analysis revealed a compatibilization effect on treated flax fibers. New C=O and C-H linkages are created and fibers are more impregnated by the resin. Results showed that the Corona discharge treatment of flax fibers in particular leads to C=O and C-H linkage creation that lowers the fabric surface tension and its better impregnation. This improves the adhesion of fiber-matrix interface and thus the mechanical resistance of the composite.