ORCID

Abstract

Bio-composites are increasingly being perceived as a green alternative to synthetic composites in many applications. However, the overall long-term durability of bio-composites is a major concern, particularly their ability for sustained performance under harsh and changing environmental conditions. This paper reports a detailed study on the effect of environmental conditions on the performance of flax/poly(lactic acid) bio-composites. Neat poly(lactic acid) and biocomposite samples were exposed to environments similar to those found outdoors: wet, freezing and humid. Moisture absorption and physical changes of specimens were periodically examined. Flexural and tensile properties were evaluated periodically to determine the detrimental effect of each exposure condition on the mechanical performance of biocomposites. Direct contact with liquid water is the most deteriorating environment for bio-composites. A drying process can partially restore the mechanical performance of these materials. Bio-composites can survive reliably in warm humid environments and in those that could create freeze and thaw cycles for short-term outdoor applications. The mechanisms and reasons involved in the degradation of the properties of green composites are discussed.

DOI

10.1177/0021998317714857

Publication Date

2018-03-01

Publication Title

Journal of Composite Materials

Volume

52

Issue

6

First Page

835

Last Page

850

ISSN

0021-9983

Organisational Unit

School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

Keywords

Natural fibres reinforced polymer composites, flax fibre, poly(lactic acid), environmental application

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