ORCID

Abstract

Thermal degradation and chemical degradation are among the key issues affecting mechanical properties and ultimately utilization of natural fibre reinforced polymer (NFRP) bio-composites. In our previous work, mathematical models were used to identify thermal processing boundaries and to recognize an optimized window for NFRP bio-composites. In this study, a correlation relating the tensile strength of flax/PLA bio-composite to the processing temperature history is proposed. For the first time, an existing linear model, which corresponds to the tensile strength of natural polymers and their degree of polymerization, has been combined with reaction kinetics to predict the tensile strength of NFRP bio-composites as a function of processing temperature history. In addition, a non-linear model has been proposed which shows a significant improvement for longer periods of time, compared with the linear model. The model is based on the underlying thermo-chemical degradation processes occurring during manufacture of NFRP bio-composites. The model is capable of predicting the tensile strength of the bio-composite within 10% error.

DOI

10.1016/j.measurement.2017.11.031

Publication Date

2018-02-28

Publication Title

Measurement (Journal of the International Measurement Confederation (IMEKO))

Volume

116

First Page

367

Last Page

372

ISSN

0263-2241

Embargo Period

2018-11-14

Organisational Unit

School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

Keywords

Bio-polymer composites, Chemical degradation, Degree of polymerization, Natural fibres, Mechanical properties, Thermal degradation

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