Per: MANOEL VINICIUS FRANCA MONTEIRO (UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO PARá), Jennifer Ferreira Fernandes (UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO PARÁ), Haianny Beatriz Saraiva Lima (UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO PARÁ), Ana Paula Souza de Sousa (UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO PARÁ), Diego Cardoso Estumano (UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO PARÁ), Emerson Cardoso Rodrigues (UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO PARÁ), Deibson Silva da Costa (UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO PARÁ)
Abstract:
The global interest in sustainable technologies has brought attention to the challenges related to the accumulation of synthetic plastics. In this regard, a possible solution is the pursuit of new polymer composites reinforced with plant fibers, such as those found in the Amazon. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize and assess the feasibility of composites with fibers from the envira cheirosa plant (Annona paludosa Aubl.), a plant already used by rural communities in the construction of mud house walls, yet still underexplored in the literature. The production of the composite followed the hand lay-up manual manufacturing method, using a silicone mold, and incorporation of 1, 3, and 5% by mass of fiber, followed by compression with 39 N. In the matrix, unsaturated orthophthalic polyester resin and 1% (v/v) butanox M-50 initiator were used. The picnometer method was used to obtain the specific mass of the fiber, and for morphological characterization, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was employed. Mechanical analysis was conducted using ASTM D638 standard to obtain the tensile strength results. Morphological characterization showed predominantly smooth fibers, and mechanical tests demonstrated a significant increase in tensile strength with the addition of fibers to the matrix. Thus, indicating that envira cheirosa fibers have potential as reinforcement in composites, especially in applications requiring lighter and stronger materials.
