Effect of Processing Methods and Fiber Content on Mechanical and Abrasive Wear Performance of Sisal Fiber/PLA Biocomposites

Abstract

Abstract

In this work, an attempt is made to study the effect of processing methods and fiber content on mechanical properties and abrasive wear behavior of polylactide-based biocomposites reinforced with sisal fiber. Three processing methods namely film-stacking, melt- impregnation and solvent-impregnation were used for fabricating unidirectional sisal fiber- reinforced biocomposites. The impact of processing methods and fiber content on biocomposites was assessed through evaluation of mechanical properties, viscoelastic behavior and abrasive wear performance. Morphology was studied by scanning electron microscopy. Biocomposites processed by solvent-impregnation method exhibited enhancement of tensile and flexural properties and reduction in Izod impact strength. Experimental results of abrasive wear tests revealed the influence of processing methods and fiber content on wear resistance of biocomposites.

Keywords: biocomposite, solvent impregnation, mechanical properties, abrasive wear