Title : Natural fibers composites: Nanoparticles as reinforcing agent for improving performances
Abstract:
The use of biocomposites, materials generally obtained by reinforcing eco-sustainable or renewable matrices with natural fibers, is increasing sharply in many industrial sectors (automotive, construction, shipbuilding, etc.) since they allow the production of components, systems and machines to be adapted to increasingly stringent environmental protection regulations, while reducing production costs, weight and operating costs. Although natural fiber reinforced composites have promising mechanical and physical characteristics, they have some limitations such as moisture absorption and a limited level of adhesion to polymer matrices. These problems lead to ineffective stress transfer at the fiber-matrix interface of the produced composites. However, the incorporation of nanomaterials can help solve these problems. The high surface area of the nanofillers promotes a better bond with the polymer matrix, resulting in a greater reinforcing action. Natural fiber reinforced composites with nanoparticles are more environmentally friendly, with lower water absorption and better mechanical properties. Furthermore, the incorporation of specific nanomaterials into natural fiber polymer composites can provide additional benefits such as bacteria resistance, anti-odour properties and UV protection.
A numerical approach was developed to model the effects of dimensional characteristics, distribution and orientation, and volume fraction of fibers and nanoparticles on the main mechanical characteristics of a biocomposite reinforced by randomly distributed short natural fibers and nanoparticles.
Funding: MUR, PNRR-M4C2, ECS_00000022
Acknowledgement: Progetto: "SiciliAn MicronanOTecH Research And Innovation CEnter "SAMOTHRACE" (MUR, PNRR-M4C2, ECS_00000022), spoke 3 - Università degli Studi di Palermo "S2-COMMs - Micro and Nanotechnologies for Smart & Sustainable Communities"
Audience Take Away Notes:
- Participants will learn how the incorporation of specific nanomaterials into natural fiber polymer composites can provide significant benefits
- People from industry may be very interested since renewable matrices with natural fibers, since there is an increasing need of these in many industrial sectors (automotive, construction, shipbuilding, etc.) in order to comply with new stringent environmental protection regulations
- This research may be useful to other faculty to expand their research or teaching on green materials
- The experimental results and the numerical model presented here can help optimizing the manufacturing of new composites reinforced with natural fibers and nanoparticles
