Wet-laid technique with Cyperus esculentus: development, manufacturing and characterization of a new composite

Abstract

Biobased composites were fabricated with waste of tiger nut natural fibers, different binder fibers (lyocell and cotton) and thermo-bonding fibers (PLA, HDPE, PA6-CoPA). These composites were processed by wet-laid process and hot-press molding process. The obtained composites were characterized by flexural, hardness and Charpy impact tests. The internal structure of the composite was analyzed by SEM observing a significant heterogeneity. The high fiber content (80% wt) and the lack of a continuous matrix phase causes mediocre mechanical response of the material. Thermo-bonding fibers kind are more influential than the binder fibers. The best mechanical responses were obtained with additions of PLA fibers thermo-bonding fibers. Flexural modulus was maximum (865 MPa) for 80%wt tiger nut/10% wt binder fiber / 10% PLA fiber composite.