Per: MIRIANE ALEXANDRINO PINHEIRO (UFPA), NÉLY THATIANE BRANCO (UFPA), marcos allan leite dos reis (ufpa), ALISSON CLAY RIOS DA SILVA (UFPA), VERÔNICA SCARPINI CANDIDO (UFPA)
Abstract:
Advances in materials science, combined with concern for the environment, have led to the production of new materials that combine good mechanical performance and sustainability. In this context, polymer composites reinforced with natural fibers stand out for their exceptional mechanical properties, lightweight nature, biodegradability and low cost. Natural lignocellulosic fibers have been increasingly used as reinforcements in polymer matrix composites, replacing synthetic fibers. Among these, the fiber extracted from the envira plant (Bocageopsis multiflora), a species from the Amazon region that has been little studied, has been used as a reinforcing material in polymer composites. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the tensile mechanical properties of polyester matrix composites.Composites were produced incorporating 10, 20 and 30 %vol fibers by volume, following the specifications of ASTM D638. The composites were evaluated for their mechanical properties in tensile strength and the fracture region was analyzed by SEM. In addition, the values obtained were statistically compared using the ANOVA and Tukey tests. The results showed that incorporating fibers into the polyester matrix increases the average tensile strength of composites with 30 % fiber by volume, increases the modulus of elasticity and decreases the deformation. Analysis of the fracture region indicated a fragile fracture aspect. These results indicate that envira fiber is a potential reinforcement for polymer matrix composites.