Effect of nanoclay on properties of the biocomposite based on unsaturated polyester resin and bamboo fibers

Abstract

Abstract. Recent times, composite materials based on organic matrixes were reinforced by natural fibers have been attracting many researches [1,2,3].  Because natural fibers have been very attractive, such as low cost, low density, eco-friendly, available in high quantities, renewable, biodegradable and shown excellent mechanical properties [4]. And since natural fibers were used as a filler in composites, products were not only improved physical mechanical properties but also cheaper and friendlier with environment. However, researchers reported on biocomposites made from polyester resin, natural fibers and nanoclay have been rather limited.

In this study, biocomposite was prepared by using Unsaturated Polyester resins (UP), bamboo fibers (BFs) and nanoclay. Fibers separated from bamboo body by mechanical method had size distribution mainly between 0.24 - 0.40 mm diameter and 1- 2.5 cm length. Fibers were treated by Sodium Hydroxide and coupling agent Vinyl Silane to help improve compatibility between fibers and polymer matrix. The biocomposites from Unsaturated Polyester resins and modified fibers were prepared by Hand lay up method. The first, nanocomposite materials from UP and nanoclay were prepared by solution method. After that solution was poured on to the selective mat layers. The wetted fibre mat layers were superposed each other in the mould and pressed in two heated platens at 120⁰C to prepare composites. The effects of factors on properties of materials, such as concentration of coupling agent and loading of modified clay…were studied meticulously. As a result, composite products showed good properties at 90phr of bamboo fibers modified by Vinyl Silane solution 0.7% and 1phr of nanoclay filler.

Keywords:  Bamboo fiber, composite, polymer, Unsaturated Polyester, nanoclay.