Study on the modification of polyester resin bamboo fiber-based composite with euphorbia coagulum and their effect on mechanical and thermal properties

Abstract

Environmental problems caused by extensive use of polymeric materials can be solved by replacing the synthetic petroleum-based resins with natural biodegradable resins, and synthetic fiber with natural plant fiber. The blend based on euphorbia coagulum and polyester resin with different ratio of both the polymers is produced. In the polymer blend, methyl ethyl ketone peroxide used as an initiator and cobalt naphthenate as an accelerator was added. Bamboo fiber was incorporated into the polymer blend as the natural filler to fabricate composite. Herein, untreated as well as alkali treated bamboo fiber was used to fabricate the composite. Alkali treatment enhanced the compatibility between the polymer blend and the fiber. To evaluate the properties of composites, water absorption, scanning electron microscopy, mechanical test, thermogravimetric analysis, and infrared spectroscopy have been performed. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of composite shows better interlocking between the polymer blend and the fiber. The maximum enhancement in mechanical properties were observed in composite with 30% euphorbia coagulum such as tensile strength, Young’s modulus, flexural strength, and impact strength were increased up to 11%, 48%, 8%, and 60%, respectively, and water absorption decreased up to 47%. Thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry analysis of composite with 30% euphorbia coagulum show enhanced thermal stability up to 8%. Composite material developed was ecofriendly and can be useful for the multipurpose panel, beam, and pedestrian bridge and can replace petroleum products.