pps proceeding - Abstract Preview
pps proceeding
Symposium: S11 - (General Session 11) Polymer Composites
Poster Presentation
 
 

Study of Hybrid Natural Fiber Fabric/PLA composites: Tensile Properties and Rate of Fire Propagation

Thongpin Chanchai (1)*

(1) Silpakorn University - Nakornpathom - Thailand

This study aimed to focus of the use of hybrid natural fibers in the form of fabric reinforcing in poly (lactic acid), PLA. The fabric was impregnated with PLA using PLA solution and air dried. The hybrid natural fiber fabric (HNFF)/PLA prepreg was then obtained. The prepreg were then laminated with PLA sheet to the thickness of 3 mm. In this study, 3 types of fibers, i.e. jute, sisal and abaca fibers were studied and compared. The fibers were firstly treated with NaOH before plain weaving in order to remove hemicellulose and lignin. The weaving was performed by hand using square wooden block fit with nails as combs for weaving. The weaving was conducted using one and two types of natural fibers for one piece of fabric. The fabric was also impregnated with sodium silicate extracted from rich husk ash in which pH of the solution was adjusted using H2SO4 for gelation to sodium silicate. After predetermined time, sodium silicate was solidified and coated on the fabric. The fabrics were then impregnated with PLA in chloroform solution. Tensile test of HNFF/PLA composite showed enhancement in Young’s modulus and tensile strength when abaca fibers were align in longitudinal direction with respect to tensioning. However, abaca hybrid with sisal seemed to show the enhancement in Young’s modulus, tensile strength and elongation at break. It was found also that HNFF/PLA composites could reduce rate of fire propagation about 40 % compare to neat PLA. With sodium silicate treated on fabric, the rate of fire propagation could be reduced about 50 %. The results of this study could bench marking the biodegradable composites prepared for products applied in high performance and fire resistance applications.