Synthesis and characterization of short Grewia optiva fiber‐based polymer composites

Natural fibers, such as Flax, Sisal, Hibiscus Sabdariffa, and Grewia optiva (GO) possess good reinforcing capability when properly compounded with polymers. These fibers are relatively inexpensive, easily available from renewable resources, and possess favorable values of specific strength and specific modulus. The mechanical performance of natural fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) is often limited owing to a weak fiber- matrix interface. In contrast, urea–formaldehyde (UF) resins are well known to have a strong adhesion to most cellulose-containing materials. This article deals with the synthesis of short G. optiva fiber-reinforced UF polymer matrix-based composites. G. optiva fiber-reinforced UF composites processed by compression molding have been studied by evaluating their mechanical, physical, and chemical properties. This work reveals that mechanical properties such as: tensile strength, compressive strength, flexural strength, and wear resistance of the UF matrix increase up to 30% fiber loading and then decreases for higher loading when fibers are incorporated into the polymer matrix. Morphological and thermal studies of the matrix, fiber, and short FRP composites have also been carried out. The swelling, moisture absorbance, chemical resistance, and water uptake behavior of these composites have also been carried out at different intervals. The results obtained lay emphasis on the utilization of these fibers, as potential reinforcing materials in bio-based polymer composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers