Evaluation of the mechanical properties of biolaminates prepared by different manufacturing techniques

Abstract

Laminates are composite materials of thermoset matrix reinforced with long fibers. Natural fibers are a low-cost renewable resource, have a low density (which gives them a high specific resistance), are not irritating or toxic, have no abrasive effects such as glass fibers, and are completely biodegradable. However, natural fibers have certain disadvantages with respect to synthetic fibers, such as their low decomposition temperature and their high hydrophilicity. There are numerous lamination manufacturing techniques: infusion, resin transfer and autoclave. The autoclave provides an improvement in the mechanical properties of the laminates due to the control of the manufacturing parameters. However, this technique is very expensive, so not all industrial sectors can access it. Knowing the mechanical performance of biolaminates prepared from different manufacturing techniques will open a window of alternate possibilities to the use of an autoclave, which includes the development of nanoreinforced biolaminates.

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