natural and wood fibre reinforcement in polymers (rapra review reports)

Rapra Review Reports

Expert overviews covering the science and technology of rubber and plastics

ISSN: 0889-3144

Natural and Wood Fibre Reinforcement in Polymers

Report 152

Volume 13, Number 8, 2002

A.K. Bledzki, V.E. Sperber and O. Faruk

RAPRA REVIEW REPORTS

A Rapra Review Report comprises three sections, as follows:

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Item 1Macromolecules

33, No.6, 21st March 2000, p.2171-83EFFECT OF THERMAL HISTORY ON THE RHEOLOGICALBEHAVIOR OF THERMOPLASTIC POLYURETHANESPil Joong Yoon; Chang Dae HanAkron,University

The effect of thermal history on the rheological behaviour of ester- andether-based commercial thermoplastic PUs (Estane 5701, 5707 and 5714from B.F.Goodrich) was investigated. It was found that the injectionmoulding temp. used for specimen preparation had a marked effect on thevariations of dynamic storage and loss moduli of specimens with timeobserved during isothermal annealing. Analysis of FTIR spectra indicatedthat variations in hydrogen bonding with time during isothermal annealingvery much resembled variations of dynamic storage modulus with timeduring isothermal annealing. Isochronal dynamic temp. sweep experimentsindicated that the thermoplastic PUs exhibited a hysteresis effect in theheating and cooling processes. It was concluded that the microphaseseparation transition or order-disorder transition in thermoplastic PUs couldnot be determined from the isochronal dynamic temp. sweep experiment.The plots of log dynamic storage modulus versus log loss modulus variedwith temp. over the entire range of temps. (110-190C) investigated. 57 refs.

GOODRICH B.F.USA

Accession no.771897

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Previous Titles Still AvailableVolume 1Report 3 Advanced Composites, D.K. Thomas, RAE, Farnborough.

Report 4 Liquid Crystal Polymers, M.K. Cox, ICI, Wilton.

Report 5 CAD/CAM in the Polymer Industry, N.W. Sandlandand M.J. Sebborn, Cambridge Applied Technology.

Report 8 Engineering Thermoplastics, I.T. Barrie, Consultant.

Report 11 Communications Applications of Polymers,R. Spratling, British Telecom.

Report 12 Process Control in the Plastics Industry,R.F. Evans, Engelmann & Buckham Ancillaries.

Volume 2Report 13 Injection Moulding of Engineering Thermoplastics,

A.F. Whelan, London School of Polymer Technology.

Report 14 Polymers and Their Uses in the Sports and LeisureIndustries, A.L. Cox and R.P. Brown, RapraTechnology Ltd.

Report 15 Polyurethane, Materials, Processing andApplications, G. Woods, Consultant.

Report 16 Polyetheretherketone, D.J. Kemmish, ICI, Wilton.

Report 17 Extrusion, G.M. Gale, Rapra Technology Ltd.

Report 18 Agricultural and Horticultural Applications ofPolymers, J.C. Garnaud, International Committee forPlastics in Agriculture.

Report 19 Recycling and Disposal of Plastics Packaging,R.C. Fox, Plas/Tech Ltd.

Report 20 Pultrusion, L. Hollaway, University of Surrey.

Report 21 Materials Handling in the Polymer Industry,H. Hardy, Chronos Richardson Ltd.

Report 22 Electronics Applications of Polymers, M.T.Goosey,Plessey Research (Caswell) Ltd.

Report 23 Offshore Applications of Polymers, J.W.Brockbank,Avon Industrial Polymers Ltd.

Report 24 Recent Developments in Materials for FoodPackaging, R.A. Roberts, Pira Packaging Division.

Volume 3Report 25 Foams and Blowing Agents, J.M. Methven, Cellcom

Technology Associates.

Report 26 Polymers and Structural Composites in CivilEngineering, L. Hollaway, University of Surrey.

Report 27 Injection Moulding of Rubber, M.A. Wheelans,Consultant.

Report 28 Adhesives for Structural and EngineeringApplications, C. O’Reilly, Loctite (Ireland) Ltd.

Report 29 Polymers in Marine Applications, C.F.Britton,Corrosion Monitoring Consultancy.

Report 30 Non-destructive Testing of Polymers, W.N. Reynolds,National NDT Centre, Harwell.

Report 31 Silicone Rubbers, B.R. Trego and H.W.Winnan,Dow Corning Ltd.

Report 32 Fluoroelastomers - Properties and Applications,D. Cook and M. Lynn, 3M United Kingdom Plc and3M Belgium SA.

Report 33 Polyamides, R.S. Williams and T. Daniels,T & N Technology Ltd. and BIP Chemicals Ltd.

Report 34 Extrusion of Rubber, J.G.A. Lovegrove, NovaPetrochemicals Inc.

Report 35 Polymers in Household Electrical Goods, D.Alvey,Hotpoint Ltd.

Report 36 Developments in Additives to Meet Health andEnvironmental Concerns, M.J. Forrest, RapraTechnology Ltd.

Volume 4Report 37 Polymers in Aerospace Applications, W.W. Wright,

University of Surrey.

Report 39 Polymers in Chemically Resistant Applications,D. Cattell, Cattell Consultancy Services.

Report 41 Failure of Plastics, S. Turner, Queen Mary College.

Report 42 Polycarbonates, R. Pakull, U. Grigo, D. Freitag, BayerAG.

Report 43 Polymeric Materials from Renewable Resources,J.M. Methven, UMIST.

Report 44 Flammability and Flame Retardants in Plastics,J. Green, FMC Corp.

Report 45 Composites - Tooling and Component Processing,N.G. Brain, Tooltex.

Report 46 Quality Today in Polymer Processing, S.H. Coulson,J.A. Cousans, Exxon Chemical International Marketing.

Report 47 Chemical Analysis of Polymers, G. Lawson, LeicesterPolytechnic.

Volume 5Report 49 Blends and Alloys of Engineering Thermoplastics,

H.T. van de Grampel, General Electric Plastics BV.

Report 50 Automotive Applications of Polymers II,A.N.A. Elliott, Consultant.

Report 51 Biomedical Applications of Polymers, C.G. Gebelein,Youngstown State University / Florida Atlantic University.

Report 52 Polymer Supported Chemical Reactions, P. Hodge,University of Manchester.

Report 53 Weathering of Polymers, S.M. Halliwell, BuildingResearch Establishment.

Report 54 Health and Safety in the Rubber Industry, A.R. Nutt,Arnold Nutt & Co. and J. Wade.

Report 55 Computer Modelling of Polymer Processing,E. Andreassen, Å. Larsen and E.L. Hinrichsen, Senter forIndustriforskning, Norway.

Report 56 Plastics in High Temperature Applications,J. Maxwell, Consultant.

Report 57 Joining of Plastics, K.W. Allen, City University.

Report 58 Physical Testing of Rubber, R.P. Brown, RapraTechnology Ltd.

Report 59 Polyimides - Materials, Processing and Applications,A.J. Kirby, Du Pont (U.K.) Ltd.

Report 60 Physical Testing of Thermoplastics, S.W. Hawley,Rapra Technology Ltd.

Volume 6Report 61 Food Contact Polymeric Materials, J.A. Sidwell,

Rapra Technology Ltd.

Report 62 Coextrusion, D. Djordjevic, Klöckner ER-WE-PA GmbH.

Report 63 Conductive Polymers II, R.H. Friend, University ofCambridge, Cavendish Laboratory.

Report 64 Designing with Plastics, P.R. Lewis, The Open University.

Report 65 Decorating and Coating of Plastics, P.J. Robinson,International Automotive Design.

Report 66 Reinforced Thermoplastics - Composition, Processingand Applications, P.G. Kelleher, New Jersey PolymerExtension Center at Stevens Institute of Technology.

Report 67 Plastics in Thermal and Acoustic Building Insulation,V.L. Kefford, MRM Engineering Consultancy.

Report 68 Cure Assessment by Physical and ChemicalTechniques, B.G. Willoughby, Rapra Technology Ltd.

Report 69 Toxicity of Plastics and Rubber in Fire, P.J. Fardell,Building Research Establishment, Fire Research Station.

Report 70 Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene Polymers,M.E. Adams, D.J. Buckley, R.E. Colborn, W.P. Englandand D.N. Schissel, General Electric Corporate Researchand Development Center.

Report 71 Rotational Moulding, R.J. Crawford, The Queen’sUniversity of Belfast.

Report 72 Advances in Injection Moulding, C.A. Maier,Econology Ltd.

Volume 7

Report 73 Reactive Processing of Polymers, M.W.R. Brown,P.D. Coates and A.F. Johnson, IRC in Polymer Scienceand Technology, University of Bradford.

Report 74 Speciality Rubbers, J.A. Brydson.

Report 75 Plastics and the Environment, I. Boustead, BousteadConsulting Ltd.

Report 76 Polymeric Precursors for Ceramic Materials,R.C.P. Cubbon.

Report 77 Advances in Tyre Mechanics, R.A. Ridha, M. Theves,Goodyear Technical Center.

Report 78 PVC - Compounds, Processing and Applications,J.Leadbitter, J.A. Day, J.L. Ryan, Hydro Polymers Ltd.

Report 79 Rubber Compounding Ingredients - Need, Theoryand Innovation, Part I: Vulcanising Systems,Antidegradants and Particulate Fillers for GeneralPurpose Rubbers, C. Hepburn, University of Ulster.

Report 80 Anti-Corrosion Polymers: PEEK, PEKK and OtherPolyaryls, G. Pritchard, Kingston University.

Report 81 Thermoplastic Elastomers - Properties and Applications,J.A. Brydson.

Report 82 Advances in Blow Moulding Process Optimization,Andres Garcia-Rejon,Industrial Materials Institute,National Research Council Canada.

Report 83 Molecular Weight Characterisation of SyntheticPolymers, S.R. Holding and E. Meehan, RapraTechnology Ltd. and Polymer Laboratories Ltd.

Report 84 Rheology and its Role in Plastics Processing,P. Prentice, The Nottingham Trent University.

Volume 8

Report 85 Ring Opening Polymerisation, N. Spassky, UniversitéPierre et Marie Curie.

Report 86 High Performance Engineering Plastics,D.J. Kemmish, Victrex Ltd.

Report 87 Rubber to Metal Bonding, B.G. Crowther, RapraTechnology Ltd.

Report 88 Plasticisers - Selection, Applications and Implications,A.S. Wilson.

Report 89 Polymer Membranes - Materials, Structures andSeparation Performance, T. deV. Naylor, The SmartChemical Company.

Report 90 Rubber Mixing, P.R. Wood.

Report 91 Recent Developments in Epoxy Resins, I. Hamerton,University of Surrey.

Report 92 Continuous Vulcanisation of Elastomer Profiles,A. Hill, Meteor Gummiwerke.

Report 93 Advances in Thermoforming, J.L. Throne, SherwoodTechnologies Inc.

Report 94 Compressive Behaviour of Composites,C. Soutis, Imperial College of Science, Technologyand Medicine.

Report 95 Thermal Analysis of Polymers, M. P. Sepe, Dickten &Masch Manufacturing Co.

Report 96 Polymeric Seals and Sealing Technology, J.A. Hickman,St Clair (Polymers) Ltd.

Volume 9

Report 97 Rubber Compounding Ingredients - Need, Theoryand Innovation, Part II: Processing, Bonding, FireRetardants, C. Hepburn, University of Ulster.

Report 98 Advances in Biodegradable Polymers, G.F. Moore &S.M. Saunders, Rapra Technology Ltd.

Report 99 Recycling of Rubber, H.J. Manuel and W. Dierkes,Vredestein Rubber Recycling B.V.

Report 100 Photoinitiated Polymerisation - Theory andApplications, J.P. Fouassier, Ecole Nationale Supérieurede Chimie, Mulhouse.

Report 101 Solvent-Free Adhesives, T.E. Rolando, H.B. FullerCompany.

Report 102 Plastics in Pressure Pipes, T. Stafford, RapraTechnology Ltd.

Report 103 Gas Assisted Moulding, T.C. Pearson, Gas Injection Ltd.

Report 104 Plastics Profile Extrusion, R.J. Kent, TangramTechnology Ltd.

Report 105 Rubber Extrusion Theory and Development,B.G. Crowther.

Report 106 Properties and Applications of ElastomericPolysulfides, T.C.P. Lee, Oxford Brookes University.

Report 107 High Performance Polymer Fibres, P.R. Lewis,The Open University.

Report 108 Chemical Characterisation of Polyurethanes,M.J. Forrest, Rapra Technology Ltd.

Volume 10

Report 109 Rubber Injection Moulding - A Practical Guide,J.A. Lindsay.

Report 110 Long-Term and Accelerated Ageing Tests on Rubbers,R.P. Brown, M.J. Forrest and G. Soulagnet,Rapra Technology Ltd.

Report 111 Polymer Product Failure, P.R. Lewis,The Open University.

Report 112 Polystyrene - Synthesis, Production and Applications,J.R. Wünsch, BASF AG.

Report 113 Rubber-Modified Thermoplastics, H. Keskkula,University of Texas at Austin.

Report 114 Developments in Polyacetylene - Nanopolyacetylene,V.M. Kobryanskii, Russian Academy of Sciences.

Report 115 Metallocene-Catalysed Polymerisation, W. Kaminsky,University of Hamburg.

Report 116 Compounding in Co-rotating Twin-Screw Extruders,Y. Wang, Tunghai University.

Report 117 Rapid Prototyping, Tooling and Manufacturing,R.J.M. Hague and P.E. Reeves, Edward MackenzieConsulting.

Report 118 Liquid Crystal Polymers - Synthesis, Properties andApplications, D. Coates, CRL Ltd.

Report 119 Rubbers in Contact with Food, M.J. Forrest andJ.A. Sidwell, Rapra Technology Ltd.

Report 120 Electronics Applications of Polymers II, M.T. Goosey,Shipley Ronal.

Volume 11

Report 121 Polyamides as Engineering Thermoplastic Materials,I.B. Page, BIP Ltd.

Report 122 Flexible Packaging - Adhesives, Coatings andProcesses, T.E. Rolando, H.B. Fuller Company.

Report 123 Polymer Blends, L.A. Utracki, National ResearchCouncil Canada.

Report 124 Sorting of Waste Plastics for Recycling, R.D. Pascoe,University of Exeter.

Report 125 Structural Studies of Polymers by Solution NMR,H.N. Cheng, Hercules Incorporated.

Report 126 Composites for Automotive Applications, C.D. Rudd,University of Nottingham.

Report 127 Polymers in Medical Applications, B.J. Lambert andF.-W. Tang, Guidant Corp., and W.J. Rogers, Consultant.

Report 128 Solid State NMR of Polymers, P.A. Mirau,Lucent Technologies.

Report 129 Failure of Polymer Products Due to Photo-oxidation,D.C. Wright.

Report 130 Failure of Polymer Products Due to Chemical Attack,D.C. Wright.

Report 131 Failure of Polymer Products Due to Thermo-oxidation,D.C. Wright.

Report 132 Stabilisers for Polyolefins, C. Kröhnke and F. Werner,Clariant Huningue SA.

Volume 12

Report 133 Advances in Automation for Plastics InjectionMoulding, J. Mallon, Yushin Inc.

Report 134 Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy of Polymers,J.L. Koenig, Case Western Reserve University.

Report 135 Polymers in Sport and Leisure, R.P. Brown.

Report 136 Radiation Curing, R.S. Davidson, DavRad Services.

Report 137 Silicone Elastomers, P. Jerschow, Wacker-Chemie GmbH.

Report 138 Health and Safety in the Rubber Industry, N. Chaiear,Khon Kaen University.

Report 139 Rubber Analysis - Polymers, Compounds andProducts, M.J. Forrest, Rapra Technology Ltd.

Report 140 Tyre Compounding for Improved Performance,M.S. Evans, Kumho European Technical Centre.

Report 141 Particulate Fillers for Polymers, Professor R.N.Rothon, Rothon Consultants and ManchesterMetropolitan University.

Report 142 Blowing Agents for Polyurethane Foams, S.N. Singh,Huntsman Polyurethanes.

Report 143 Adhesion and Bonding to Polyolefins, D.M. Brewisand I. Mathieson, Institute of Surface Science &Technology, Loughborough University.

Report 144 Rubber Curing Systems, R.N. Datta, Flexsys BV.

Volume 13

Report 145 Multi-Material Injection Moulding, V. Goodship andJ.C. Love, The University of Warwick.

Report 146 In-Mould Decoration of Plastics, J.C. Love andV. Goodship, The University of Warwick

Report 147 Rubber Product Failure, Roger P. Brown

Report 148 Plastics Waste – Feedstock Recycling, ChemicalRecycling and Incineration, A. Tukker, TNO

Report 149 Analysis of Plastics, Martin J. Forrest, RapraTechnology Ltd.

Report 150 Mould Sticking, Fouling and Cleaning, D.E. Packham,Materials Research Centre, University of Bath

Report 151 Rigid Plastics Materials - Materials, Processes andApplications, F. Hannay, Nampak Group Research &Development

Natural and Wood FibreReinforcement in Polymers

ISBN 1-85957-359-2

A.K. Bledzki, V.E. Sperber and O. Faruk

(University of Kassel)


1

Contents

1. Survey of Natural Fibre Composites ..................................................................................................... 3

2. Cellulose Based Fibres ............................................................................................................................. 4

2.1 Description of Fibres ...................................................................................................................... 4

2.1.1 Natural Fibres ..................................................................................................................... 42.1.2 Wood Fibres ........................................................................................................................ 72.1.3 Man-Made Cellulosic Fibres .............................................................................................. 92.1.4 Nanofibres .......................................................................................................................... 9

2.2 Structure and Chemical Constituents of Fibres .............................................................................. 9

2.2.1 Cellulose ............................................................................................................................. 92.2.2 Lignin ............................................................................................................................... 122.2.3 Further Components ......................................................................................................... 12

2.3 Characteristics ............................................................................................................................... 12

2.3.1 Mechanical ....................................................................................................................... 122.3.2 Physical ............................................................................................................................. 122.3.3 Chemical ........................................................................................................................... 15

3. Methods of Surface Treatment of Natural and Wood Fibres ............................................................ 15

3.1 Physical Methods .......................................................................................................................... 15

3.1.1 Corona Treatment ............................................................................................................. 153.1.2 Cold Plasma Treatment .................................................................................................... 15

3.2 Chemical Methods ........................................................................................................................ 15

3.2.1 Change of Surface Tension ............................................................................................... 163.2.2 Impregnation of Fibres ..................................................................................................... 163.2.3 Mercerisation .................................................................................................................... 163.2.4 Chemical Coupling ........................................................................................................... 18

4. Processing of Natural Fibre Reinforced Plastics ................................................................................ 19

4.1 Thermoplastics .............................................................................................................................. 19

4.1.1 Extrusion ........................................................................................................................... 194.1.2 Injection Moulding ........................................................................................................... 204.1.3 Compression Moulding .................................................................................................... 204.1.4 Express Process ................................................................................................................ 204.1.5 Mixing .............................................................................................................................. 21

4.2 Thermosets .................................................................................................................................... 21

4.2.1 Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM)...................................................................................... 214.2.2 Sheet Moulding Compound (SMC) ................................................................................. 22

5. Properties of Natural and Wood Fibre Composites ........................................................................... 22

5.1 Mechanical Properties .................................................................................................................. 22

5.1.1 Tensile Properties ............................................................................................................. 225.1.2 Flexural Properties ........................................................................................................... 235.1.3 Impact Properties .............................................................................................................. 23

5.2 Physical Properties ........................................................................................................................ 24

5.2.1 Water Absorption .............................................................................................................. 245.2.2 Swelling ............................................................................................................................ 255.2.3 Moisture Content .............................................................................................................. 26


2

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5.3 Biological Properties .................................................................................................................... 26

5.3.1 Fungi ................................................................................................................................. 275.3.2 Bacteria ............................................................................................................................. 27

6. Biologically Degradable Composite Materials ................................................................................... 27

7. Applications of Natural Fibre Reinforced Polymers .......................................................................... 28

7.1 Automotive Applications .............................................................................................................. 28

7.2 Building Applications ................................................................................................................... 28

7.3 Furniture and Panels ..................................................................................................................... 29

7.4 Aerospace Applications ................................................................................................................ 29

7.5 Others ............................................................................................................................................ 29

8. Recent Developments in Natural and Wood Fibre Reinforcement of Polymers ............................. 29

9. Conclusion .............................................................................................................................................. 30

Additional References ................................................................................................................................... 31

Abbreviations and Acronyms ....................................................................................................................... 32

Abstracts from the Polymer Library Database .......................................................................................... 33

Subject Index ............................................................................................................................................... 135


3

1 Survey of Natural Fibre Composites

The use of composite materials dates from centuriesago, when it all started with natural fibres. In ancientEgypt some 3,000 years ago, clay was reinforced bystraw to build walls. Later on the natural fibre lost muchof its interest.

With the industrial use of plastics, combinations ofplastics with natural fibres or wood flour wereintroduced. The body of the East German car ‘Trabant’(1950-1990) was one of the typical examples forapplication of natural fibres (cotton) embedded in apolyester matrix (a.1).

Other more durable construction materials weredeveloped when glass fibres in combination with tough,rigid resins could be produced on a large scale. Thelast decade showed a renewed interest in natural andwood fibre as a substitute for glass fibre.

After decades of high-tech developments of artificialfibres like carbon, aramid and glass, it is remarkablethat natural grown fibres are once more of interest,particularly as a glass fibre substitute in automotiveindustries. Fibres like flax, hemp or jute are cheap, havebetter stiffness per unit weight and have a lower impacton the environment. Although automotive is taking thelead in the revival of natural fibres, applications aremainly restricted to upholstery applications whereacoustic and thermal insulation, low cost and anenvironmentally friendly image are advantages.Structural applications are rare since existingproduction techniques are not applicable and theavailability of semi-finished materials of consistentquality is still a problem.

There is a renewed interest in the use of natural fibres,also known as agro-based resources for composites.

These resources include wood, agricultural plants andresidues, grasses, water plants, and a wide variety ofwaste agro-mass including recycled wood, paper, andpaper products. Rowell and co-workers (a.2) havedemonstrated the possible processing pathways for eachplant fraction leading to different composite products:

• The whole plant can be fiberised and used forstructural and non-structural composites.

• Pith can be used for sorbents, packing, lightweightcomposites and insulation.

• Long fibres are suitable for combinations with otherresources.

• Long fibre mats can be used in filters, geotextiles,packaging and moulded composites.

The use of natural and wood fibres in compositeapplications is being investigated intensively in Europe.As a result, many automotive components (156, 164,180, 202, 203, 248, 256, 265, 266, 283, 292, 308, 322)are now produced in natural composites, mainly basedon polyester or polypropylene and fibres like flax, juteor wood. Until now however, the motivation in thisindustry has been price and marketing spin (processingrenewable resources), rather than technical demands.The range of products is restricted to interior and non-structural components like door upholstery or rearshelves, due to the traditional shortcomings of naturaland wood fibre composites:

(a) low impact strength and

(b) poor moisture resistance.

Table 1 (a.3) shows the consumption of natural fibre inthe automotive industry in Europe which was 21,300ton in 1999 and 28,300 ton in 2000, which indicates the

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4

rapid increase in natural fibre consumption. These fibresare also being used in applications such as packaging inEurope, e.g., egg cartons, particularly in Germany.

Compared with Europe, some Asian countries, especiallyIndia have been continually using natural fibres, mainlyjute fibres, as reinforcement for composites.

It is briefly reported (190, 191, 195, 196, 201, 284,293) that wood polymer composites account for a300,000 t/year market in USA for building and gardenproducts and this figure should more than double by2005. Decking accounts for about 60% of the total,with the rest being used for flooring, etc.

In 2000 Materials Today announced (186) that naturalfibre composites of thermoplastics and thermosets,were soon to be approved by the US Federal AviationAuthority and the UK Civil Aviation Authority foraerospace applications.

This review will discuss the possible applications ofnatural and wood fibre polymer composites as presentlydeveloped.

2 Cellulose Based Fibres

In general, natural fibres are subdivided as to their origin,coming from plants, animals or minerals (Figure 1).

The plant fibres may be bast fibres, leaf or seed fibres.Plant fibres are usually used as reinforcement inplastics. The plant world is full of examples where cellsand groups of cells are designed for strength andstiffness. A sparing use of resources has resulted inoptimisation of the cell functions. Cellulose is a naturalpolymer with high strength and stiffness per weight,and it is the building material of long fibrous cells.These cells can be found in the stem, the leaves or theseeds of plants. Wood fibres are also included ascellulose based fibres, but are different to plant fibres.

2.1 Description of Fibres

2.1.1 Natural Fibres

2.1.1.1 Flax

The bast fibre flax is the cellulose fibre that is the mostfrequently used in the higher value-added textilemarkets. Linen has historically been a widely used andappreciated fashion fabric, and textile flax thereforehas a substantial infrastructure. Nowadays, it is widelyused in the automotive industry.

Girault and co-workers (243) examined thecomposition and structure of cell walls of flax fibresas targets for biotechnology. The findings confirm thebiochemical data showing that early developing flax

Figure 1

Classification of fibres


5

fibres synthesise and secrete different pectin andprotein molecules in addition to cellulose and suggestthat the composition of fibre walls is spatiallydeveloped and regulated.

Various investigations have been carried out on the useof flax fibres in composites:

• processing method (192, 379),

• coupling effect (fibre/matrix adhesion) inunsaturated polymers (194),

• flammability in polypropylene composites (223),

• effects of defects and dispersion in epoxycomposites (295) and

• critical fibre length (387).

Four different types of flax fibres (188) (green flax,dew-retted flax, Duralin-treated flax and stearic acid-treated flax fibre) were used with different isotacticPP matrices. The effect of crystallisation temperature,time and cooling rates on the formation oftranscrystallinity was investigated. It was found thatthe interfacial adhesion was improved by the presenceof a transcrystalline layer.

Brouwer (257) has examined the feasibility of usingflax fibre composites in the trailers, coachwork andbus industry.

In the production of composite materials from flax fibreand polypropylene (PP), the process parameters havea significant effect on the mechanical properties of theparts (334). The boundaries of the process control arederived from theoretical principles and temperature-time dependencies, determined by thermoanalyticaltechniques.

2.1.1.2 Hemp

The production of hemp is relatively limited and itsinfrastructure remains undeveloped. Hemp is currentlythe subject of a European Union subsidy for non foodagriculture, and a considerable initiative has beenunderway for further development in Europe.

Lear Corp. (265, 283), Johnson controls (266) and Ford(411) are using hemp fibre for reinforcing plastics in anumber of automotive components.

The technology of cultivation, harvesting, production,marketing and processing of hemp fibre have beendiscussed, and the life cycle of hemp fibre reinforcedcomponents has been assessed (225, 226, 303, 244, 309).

Thermal conductivity (224), mechanical properties(which could be improved by minimising processingdamage (320)) and the influence of molecular structures,curing conditions and formulations on the thermal,mechanical and morphological properties (419) of hempfibre reinforced composites have been investigated.

2.1.1.3 Jute

Jute is the bast fibre with the highest volume ofproduction. Although never used in higher value textiles,its prominence as a coarse textile fibre for sacking, itswide use as a cordage fibre, and as a carpet backingfibre has supported its continued development in regionssuch as Bangladesh, India and China which are suitedto its growth and which have low labour costs.

Mohanty and co-workers (286) investigated the effectsof surface modification of jute fabrics, examining themechanical properties and biodegradability of jute/Biopol (a biodegradable polymer) composites. Jutereinforced Biopol demonstrated more than 50%enhancement in tensile strength, 30% in bendingstrength and 90% in impact strength relative to pureBiopol sheets. From degradation studies it was foundthat after 150 days of burial as compost more than 50%weight loss of the jute/Biopol composites occurs.Similar studies have been carried out on jute/polyesteramide composites (321).

The effect of hybridisation (231) on the tensileproperties of jute-cotton woven fabric reinforcedpolyester composites were investigated as a functionof fibre content, orientation and roving texture. It wasobserved that tensile properties along the direction ofthe jute roving alignment (transverse to the cottonroving alignment) increase steadily with fibre contentup to 50% and then show a tendency to decrease. Thetensile strength of composites with 50% fibre contentparallel to the jute roving is about 220% higher thanpure polyester resin.

Khan and co-workers (275, 369, 412, 427) haveinvestigated the properties of jute/plastic compositesunder UV radiation.

The properties of jute/plastic composites have also beencompared to glass fibre composites including thermal


6

stability, crystallinity, modification, transesterification,weathering and mechanical properties (148, 245, 251,269, 367, 381).

Mitra and co-workers (368, 371) have studied thedynamic parameters, such as storage, flexural andshear modulus, loss flexural and shear modulus andloss factor or damping efficiency (tan delta) of jute/polypropylene composites. The nature of thetransition peak, amplitude and temperatures of themoduli and the tan delta of different compositionswere shown to indicate possible improvements ofmolecular interaction in the presence of acompatibiliser.

A detailed review is given of jute composites byMohanty and co-workers (443), particularly thestructure and chemical composition of jute fibres, jutefibre reinforced thermosetting, rubber andthermoplastic polymer composites and cost aspectsand applications of jute products.

2.1.1.4 Sisal

Sisal is commercially produced in Brazil and EastAfrica (Tanzania, Kenya and Madagascar) from theagave plant. It is a prominent cordage fibre and isused in decorative carpeting. It is also used speciallyin papermaking. Joseph and Mattoso have reviewedthe use of sisal in polymer composites (240) and statethat the composites have relatively high impactstrength, with moderate tensile and flexural properties.

Thomas and co-workers have experimented widely(220, 274, 287, 342, 442) on sisal/plastic compositesmeasuring the thermal properties, melt rheologicalbehaviour, morphology, processing variables, effectof fibre length, distribution, orientation, concentrationand bonding agent on physico-mechanical properties.

Many other studies have been carried out on sisal fibrereinforced polymer composites regardingmercerisation and acetylation (232), NMR studies(242), the effect of coupling agent (267), crystallinity(271), the effect of fibre length (237) and impactproperties (230).

Li and co-workers (276) have reviewed developmentsin sisal fibre and its composites. The properties ofthe sisal fibre itself, the modification of the interfacebetween sisal fibre and matrix and the properties ofsisal fibre reinforced composites and their hybridcomposites are reviewed.

2.1.1.5 Pineapple Leaf Fibre

Pineapple leaf fibre is rich in cellulose, relativelyinexpensive and abundantly available, and has thepotential for polymer reinforcement. Pineapple leaffibres at present are a waste product of pineapplecultivation. Hence, without any additional cost input,pineapple fibre can be obtained for industrialpurposes, this is proved by recent studies.

Pineapple leaf fibre reinforced polymer compositeswere investigated in depth by Thomas and co-workers(337, 382, 393, 395, 397, 421, 430, 444). The effectsof strain rate and temperature, environmental effects,chemical modification effects on physico-mechanicalproperties and electrical properties, stress relaxationbehaviour (dependence on fibre loading, length,orientation and chemical treatment) and rheologicalproperties were examined.

Netravali and co-workers (346, 351) studied themechanical and thermal properties of pineapple/plasticcomposites, using poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-valerate)as the matrix. The tensile and flexural properties ofpineapple composites with different fibre contents weremeasured in both longitudinal and transverse directions.Compared to those of virgin resin, the tensile andflexural strengths of sisal composites are significantlyhigher in the longitudinal direction while they are lowerin the transverse direction.

Pineapple leaf fibre (285, 422) has been modified byalkali, acetylation and graft copolymerisation.Grafting improved the thermal stability of pineappleleaf fibre: modified fibres showed significanthydrophobicity, improved mechanical strength andchemical resistance.

2.1.1.6 Kenaf

Kenaf has the benefit of extensive research anddevelopment during the past 30 years, much of itunderwritten by government agencies in the USA andthe European Union. However, it remains a relativelyinsignificant fibre crop with very limited infrastructure.

Kafus Environmental industries (375) have developedapplications for materials reinforced with kenaf fibres,particularly in the automotive industry. Kenafcomposites have good impact strengths, are 20-30%lighter in weight than glass reinforced plastics (GRPs),are less likely to warp under extreme heat and humidity,and can be recycled. The long outer fibres of kenaf canbe combined with polymers such as polypropylene to


7

create automotive trim components such as door panels,seat backs, headliners and package trays.

Kenaf fibres have been used in rubber vulcanisateswhere they had an improved reinforcing effectcompared to synthetic viscose (229). Graftcopolymerisation (348) of kenaf fibres and mechanicalproperties (383) have also been studied.

2.1.1.7 Ramie

Ramie’s popularity as a textile fibre has been limitedlargely by regions of production and a chemicalcomposition that has required more extensivepretreatment than is required of the other commerciallyimportant bast fibres.

Structural analysis (405), reinforcement possibility(407, 431) and the crystallinity (437) of ramie fibreshave all been investigated.

2.1.1.8 Abaca/Banana Fibre

The abaca/banana fibre, which is from the banana plant,is durable and resistant to sea water. Abaca, thestrongest of the commercially available cellulose fibres,is indigenous to the Philippines and is currentlyproduced in that country and in Ecuador. It was oncethe preferred cordage fibre for marine applications.

Tobias and co-workers (389, 388, 447) haveinvestigated the creep behaviour and physico-mechanical properties of banana fibre composites. Acomposite with 30%wt banana fibre had a flexuralstrength of 97 MPa and a modulus of elasticity inbending of 6.5 GPa. The fracture toughness of thecomposite was about 1.6 times greater than thepolyester matrix.

2.1.1.9 Seed Fibres

Cotton is the most common seed fibre and is used fortextiles all over the world. Other seed fibres are appliedin less demanding applications such as stuffing ofupholstery. Coir is an exception to this.

Coir is the fibre of the coconut husk. It is a thick andcoarse but durable fibre and applications are ropes,matting and brushes. Life cycle assessment (228) ofautomobile seats based on coir fibre/latex compositesand technical feasibility (227) for the production offibre boards from coir fibre have been evaluated.

Ismail and co-workers (161, 162, 163) studied themechanical properties of rice husk filled polymercomposites and their relation to fibre loading, couplingagent and processability. Physical properties andswelling (174), and potential for use as a carbon blackreplacement in natural rubber (374) of rice husk filledcomposites have been examined.

Oil palm empty fruit bunch fibres have shown potentialas a reinforcement fibre for plastic. Thomas and co-workers (171, 281, 302) investigated the stressrelaxation effect, different chemical treatments andthermal conductivity and diffusivity of oil palm emptyfruit bunch reinforced composites. The matrixinvestigated was phenol-formaldehyde resin.

Ishak and co-workers (182, 372, 377) studied the effectof oil extraction, compounding techniques and fibreloading on the mechanical properties of oil palm emptyfruit bunch filled composites. High density polyethyleneand polypropylene were used as the matrix.

2.1.2 Wood Fibres

Throughout history, the unique characteristics andcomparative abundance of wood have made it a naturalmaterial for homes and other structures, furniture, tools,vehicles, and decorative objects. Today wood fibrereinforced thermoplastics are enjoying rapid growth dueto a lot of advantages. Wood particles, such as chips,flakes, fibres, and wood pulps are used as reinforcementagents. Woods are divided into two broad classes, usuallyreferred to as hard woods and soft woods. These termscan be confusing since some soft woods are actuallyharder than some hard woods and conversely some hardwoods are softer than some soft woods. For example,soft woods such as longleaf pine and Douglas-far aretypically harder than the hard woods bass wood andaspen. Table 2 shows the difference in chemicalconstituents of hard wood and soft wood (a.4).

A lot of investigations (159, 205, 418, 425, 438, 449,390, 392) were carried out on wood fibre reinforcedcomposites without defining the wood type as hardor soft.

Bledzki and co-workers (378) have discussed theproblems concerning the processing of thermoplasticsreinforced with wood fillers. The high level of moistureabsorption by the filler, its poor wettability, as well asthe insufficient adhesion between untreated filler andthe polymer matrix are reasons for the low tensilestrength and high moisture sorption of composites.


8

Physical and chemical modifications to overcome theseshortcomings were evaluated. Optimisation oftechnological parameters of wood thermoplasticsprocessing is necessary.

Bledzki and co-workers (2) have also investigated theeffect of maleic anhydride grafted PP as acompatibiliser on hard wood and soft wood fibre/polypropylene (PP) composites. Hard wood fibre/PPcomposites showed better performance compared withthe soft wood fibre/PP composites.

2.1.2.1 Hard Wood Fibres

Botanically, hard woods are angiosperms; the seeds areenclosed in the ovary of the flower. Anatomically, hardwoods are porous; that is they contain vessel elements.A vessel element is a wood cell with open ends.Typically, hard woods are plants with broad leaves that,with few exceptions in the temperate region, lose theirleaves in autumn or winter.

Wood polymer composites (344) made with differentchemical combinations have been evaluated fordimensional stability, ability to exclude water vapourand liquid water, and hardness. Maple and oak hardwood were combined with different combinations ofhexanediol diacrylate, hydroxyethyl methacrylate,hexamethylene diisocyanate and maleic anhydride.Treatment slows the rates of water vapour and liquidwater absorption and the rate of swelling of woodpolymer specimens is less than that of unmodified woodspecimens. In addition, wood polymer composites areharder than unmodified wood.

Steam exploded fibres from Yellow Poplar (350) wereassessed in terms of their thermal stabilitycharacteristics. Fibres included water-extracted steamexploded fibre, alkali-extracted fibres, acetylated fibresand a commercial milled out fibre sample. It was foundthat acetylated fibre composites produced the bestmechanical properties.

Cutinho and co-workers (294, 417) studied aspen fibreswith polypropylene and evaluated the effect oftreatment, mixing conditions and coupling agent onmechanical properties.

2.1.2.2 Soft Wood Fibres

Botanically, soft woods are gymnosperms orconifers; the seeds are naked (not enclosed in theovary of the flower). Anatomically, soft woods arenonporous and do not contain vessels. Soft woodsare usually cone-bearing plants with needle- or scale-like evergreen leaves.

Different types of pine wood fibre reinforcement havebeen examined. Investigations have been undertakeninto chemical modification (165), interphasedevelopment (by gas chromatography) (279), watervapour absorption behaviour (354), developing a highgrade industrial material from plastics and pine woodfibres (385) and modelling and simulation of vacuumforming of wood fibre/thermoplastics (409).

Dufresne and co-workers (332) pretreated a soft wood(spruce) using a steam explosion technique and used itas a natural filler in PP based composites. The steam-

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9

explosion pretreatment severity increased the surfaceenergy and the apparent specific surface, but at the sametime decreased the aspect ratio of the fibre. Steam-exploded softwood was found to be ineffective, givingsimilar Young’s modulus and lower strengths comparedto the unfilled PP matrix and to the composites withraw softwood fibres. Both the tensile strength and theYoung’s modulus of the composites increased when afunctionalised compatibiliser, maleic anhydridemodified PP, was used to coat the fibre.

2.1.3 Man-Made Cellulosic Fibres

As a rule, a distinction is made between man-madefibres from synthetic polymers and those fromcellulosic polymers. The acrylic, polyamide, polyesterand elastane fibres belong to the group of man-madefibres made from synthetic polymers. With cellulosicman-made fibres (e.g., viscose), cellulose from woodis used as the raw material. There are three types ofcellulosic man-made fibres, such as filament yarns(viscose and acetate for textile and industrial), staplefibres (viscose), and tow (viscose and acetate).

Viscose is the most important of the cellulosic man-made fibres and has a long tradition. Viscose is madeup for linings and mostly light summer wear. Viscosehas many properties which vary according to themethod of processing.

Mieck and co-workers (a.5) have described thefeasibility and applications of using man-madecellulosic fibres and studied their mechanical propertiescompared to flax fibres.

2.1.4 Nanofibres

The lignocellulosic materials are mainly made of acomplex network of three polymers namely cellulose,hemicellulose and lignin. Cellulosic nanofibres can beseparated from raw natural fibres by a process such assteam explosion. Nanofibres consist of monocrystallinecellulose domains with the microfibril axis parallel tothe cellulose chains. The definition of nanocompositematerial has broadened significantly to encompass alarge variety of systems such as one-dimensional, two-dimensional, three-dimensional and amorphousmaterials, made of distinctly dissimilar components andmixed at the nanometer scale.

The general class of nanocomposite organic/inorganicmaterials is a fast growing area of research. Significanteffort is being focused on the ability to obtain control of

nanoscale structures via innovative synthetic approaches.The properties of nanocomposite materials depend notonly on the properties of their individual parents but alsoon their morphology and interfacial characteristics. Thisrapidly expanding field is generating many exciting newmaterials with novel properties.

Dufresne and co-workers (172, 241, 255, 277, 329, 401,424, 428, 434) have carried out extensive work onseparation, characterisation and processing of cellulosemicrofibrils and have analysed the properties of thesenanocomposites. Hajji and co-workers (433) havemeasured the tensile behaviour of nanocompositesunder the influence of different processing conditionsand content of filler.

2.2 Structure and Chemical Constituentsof Fibres

Climatic conditions, age and the degradation processinfluence not only the structure of fibres but also thechemical composition. The major chemical componentof a living tree is water, but on a dry basis, all plantcell walls consist mainly of sugar based polymers(cellulose, hemicellulose) that are combined with ligninwith lesser amount of extractives, protein, starch andinorganics. The chemical components are distributedthroughout the cell wall which is composed of primaryand secondary wall layers. Chemical compositionvaries from plant to plant, and within different parts ofthe same plant. Rowell and co-workers have produceddata on this. Table 3 shows the range of averagechemical constituents for a wide variety of plant types.

2.2.1 Cellulose

Cellulose is the most abundant natural polymer in theworld and the most essential component of all plantfibres. It is an isotactic β-1,4-polyacetal of cellubiose.The basic unit, cellubiose, is composed of twomolecules of glucose. As a result, cellulose is oftencalled a polyacetal of glucose. The summation formulafor cellulose is (P - degree of polymerisation):

C6P H10P+2 O5P+1

elementary composition: carbon 44.4%hydrogen 6.2%oxygen 49.4%

with the molecular weight of m0 = 162

Figure 2 shows the chemical structure of cellulose.


10

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11

O

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Chemical structure of cellulose (X = single unit) (a.6)

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Part of a lignin molecule


12

Cellulose molecules are randomly oriented and have atendency to form intra- and intermolecular hydrogenbonds. The packing density of cellulose is highlycrystalline and may contain as much as 80 percentcrystalline regions. The remaining portion has a lowerpacking density and is referred to as amorphouscellulose. On a dry weight basis, most plants consistof approximately 45 to 50% cellulose. This can varyfrom a high (cotton) of almost 90% to a low of about30% for stalk fibres.

2.2.2 Lignin

Lignins are amorphous, highly complex, mainlyaromatic, polymers of phenyl-propane units(Figure 3). Lignins can be classified in several waysbut they are usually divided according to theirstructural elements (a.7). Lignin is distributedthroughout the secondary cell wall with the highestconcentration in the middle lamella. The function oflignin in plants is as an encrusting agent in thecellulose/hemicellulose matrix. It is often referred toas the plant cell wall adhesive.

2.2.3 Further Components

The hemicellulose fraction of plants consists of acollection of polysaccharide polymers. Hemicellulosesusually consist of more than one type of sugar unit.

Part of the hemicellulose fraction consists of pentosesugars mainly D-xylose and L-arabinose. Thepolymers containing these five carbon sugars arereferred to as pentosans.

The inorganic content of a plant is usually referred toas its ash content, which is an approximate measure ofthe mineral salts and other inorganic matter in the fibreafter combustion at a temperature of 575 ± 25 °C. Theinorganic content can be quite high in plants containinglarge amounts of silica.

Proteins are polymers of amino acids that are normallyin high concentration in young growing cells, but canalso be found in some plants in high concentrationthroughout their life cycle.

The extractives are a group of cell wall chemicalsmainly consisting of fats, fatty acids, fatty alcohols,phenols, terpenes, steroids, resin acids, rosin, waxes,etc. These chemicals exist as monomers, dimers andpolymers.

2.3 Characteristics

A single natural or wood fibre is a three dimensional,biopolymer composite composed mainly of cellulose,hemicelluloses, and lignin with minor amounts of freesugars, starch, protein, extractives and inorganics. Theperformance of a given fibre used in a given applicationdepends on several factors including chemicalcomposition, physical properties, mechanicalproperties, the interaction of a fibre with the compositematrix, and how that fibre or fibre/matrix performsunder a given set of environmental conditions. In orderto expand the use of natural and wood fibre forcomposites, it is essential that information is availableabout fibre characteristics and the factors which affectthe performance of that fibre. It is also necessary toknow the factors which affect the performance of agiven fibre in a given application.

2.3.1 Mechanical

The range of characteristic values, as one of thedrawbacks for all natural products, is considerable,which can be explained by differences in fibre structuredue to the overall environmental conditions duringgrowth. Natural and wood fibres can be processed indifferent ways to yield reinforcing elements havingdifferent mechanical properties. Hydrophilic nature isa major problem for all cellulose fibres if used asreinforcement in plastics. The moisture content of thefibres is dependent on the content of non-crystallineparts and the void content of the fibre. The hydrophilicnature of natural fibres influences the overallmechanical properties.

2.3.2 Physical

The physical properties of each natural and wood fibreare critical, including fibre dimensions, defects,strength and structure.

2.3.2.1 Fibre Dimensions

Knowledge about fibre length and width is importantfor comparing different kinds of natural and woodfibres. A high aspect ratio (length/width) is veryimportant in cellulose based fibre composites as it givean indication of possible strength properties. Rowelland co-workers have compiled data: the length andwidth of some common natural fibres are shown inTable 4. In many cases, there is a wide variation inboth length and width.


13

2.3.2.2 Fibre Strength

The fibre strength can be an important factor inselecting a specific natural fibre for a specificapplication. Data on the tensile strength of severalnatural fibres indicates that tensile strength varieswidely depending on the type of fibre tested (414).

The tensile strength values of a variety of natural fibresare listed in Table 5.

2.3.2.3 Fibre Structure

Changes in physical properties can be due to differencesin fibre morphology. Major differences in structure suchas density, cell wall thickness, length and diameter doresult in differences in physical properties. It is alsointeresting to note that the morphology of land plantfibres is very different to that of water plant fibres.

Bledzki and co-workers (a.8) assert that the degree ofopenness of a fibrous material is of major impact onthe properties and values of products, in mechanical,physical and chemical aspects. Openness depends on

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14

factors such as the number of fibres per unit weight,fibre length and thickness and branching.

Figure 4 shows scanning electron micrographs (SEMs)of a single jute fibre structure at differentmagnifications.

2.3.2.4 Crystallinity and Permeability

Crystallinity values of natural and wood fibres vary indifferent parts of the plant. Crystallinity tends to decreaseas the plant matures, but the difference between bastand core fibres is inconclusive. The permeability of kenafcore is the highest followed by cotton.

Green flax, dew ratted flax and Duralin flax (352) wereexamined using the crystallisation from the melt ofvarious polyolefin matrices (isotactic PP, maleicanhydride PP and HDPE). It was revealed that all threetypes of flax fibres induce the formation of atranscrystalline layer in isotactic PP, while only dewratted flax was found able to induce transcrystallinityin HDPE and maleic anhydride PP.

Bledzki and co-workers (315) examined the influenceof thermal conditions as well as of different fibretreatments on the crystallisation of PP. The results of

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SEM micrographs of a single jute fibre at differentmagnifications


15

this investigation show that the nucleation density ofuntreated and maleic anhydride treated jute fibres ishigher in comparison with alkali treated jute fibresbecause of differences in the chemical composition andphysical properties of the fibre surface. With increasingrecrystallisation temperature, the maximumtranscrystalline layer thickness is shifted to highercrystallisation times.

2.3.3 Chemical

The major chemical component of a living tree is water,but, on a dry weight basis, all plant cell walls consistmainly of sugar based polymers combined with ligninwith lesser amounts of extractives, protein, starch, andinorganics as described in Section 2.2.

Chemical composition varies from plant to plant, andwithin different parts of the same plant. It also varieswith plants from different geographic regions, ages,climate and soil conditions.

Chemical properties are influenced by fibre growthtime (days after planting), botanical classification offibre and stalk height. Chemical composition can alsovary within the same part of a plant. Both root andstalk core have high lignin content.

3 Methods of Surface Treatment ofNatural and Wood Fibres

New natural and wood fibre based composites are beingdeveloped that could benefit from a thorough andfundamental understanding of the fibre surface. Theseproducts may require new adhesive systems to reachtheir full commercial potential. The natural fibre andwood fibre surface is a complex heterogeneous polymercomposed of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Thesurface is influenced by polymer morphology,extractive chemicals and processing conditions. Theextent of the fibre-matrix interface is significant forthe application of natural and wood fibres asreinforcement fibres for plastics. There are two typesof methods used to optimise the fibre surface, physicalmethods and chemical methods. These modificationmethods are of different efficiencies for improving theadhesion between matrix and fibre (217).

3.1 Physical Methods

Reinforcing fibres can be modified by physical methodssuch as stretching, calendering, thermotreatment, and

the production of hybrid yarns. Physical treatmentschange structural and surface properties of the fibreand thereby influence the mechanical bonding topolymers.

3.1.1 Corona Treatment

Electric discharge (corona and cold plasma) is anotherway of physical treatment. Corona treatment is one ofthe most interesting techniques for surface oxidationactivation. This process changes the surface energy ofthe cellulose fibres and in the case of wood surfaceactivation increases the amount of aldehyde groups.Corona discharge treatment of cellulose fibre andhydrophobic matrix was found to be effective inimproving compatibilisation between hydrophilic fibreand hydrophobic matrix.

Tossa jute fibres (260) were corona discharge treatedto improve the mechanical properties of natural fibre/epoxy composites. Corona-treated fibres exhibitedsignificantly higher polar components of the freesurface energy with increasing treatment energy output.Owing to difficulties in effective treatment of three-dimensional objects with corona discharge, the increaseof polarity of treated yarns is relatively small.Furthermore a decrease in the yarn tenacity wasobserved with increasing corona energy level.

3.1.2 Cold Plasma Treatment

The same effects are achieved by cold plasmatreatment. A variety of surface modification can beachieved depending on the type and nature of the gasesused. Reactive free radicals and groups can beproduced, surface energy can be increased or decreasedand surface crosslinking can be introduced. Plasmatreatment is another important treatment to achievebetter interfacial bonding of the fibre to the matrix (420,429). Modification effects by plasma treatment dependon the nature, flux and energy distribution of theincident species (217).

Martin (233) prepared sisal-HDPE composites andshowed that some improvements in mechanicalproperties of the composites are achieved due to theplasma treatments.

3.2 Chemical Methods

Cellulose fibres which are strongly polarised areinherently incompatible with hydrophobic polymers due


16

to their hydrophilic nature. When two materials areincompatible, it is possible in many cases to bring aboutcompatibility by introducing a third material, that hasproperties intermediate between those of the other two.There are several mechanisms of coupling in materials:

• Weak boundary layers - coupling agents eliminateweak boundary layers.

• Deformable layers - coupling agents produce atough, flexible layer.

• Restrained layers - coupling agents develop ahighly crosslinked interphase region, with amodulus intermediate between that of the substrateand of the polymer.

• Wettability - coupling agents improve the wettingbetween polymer and substrate (critical surfacetension factor).

• Chemical bonding - coupling agents form covalentbonds with both materials.

• Acid-base effect - coupling agents alter the acidityof the substrate surface.

The development of a definite theory for themechanism of bonding by coupling agents incomposites is a complex problem. The main chemicalbonding theory alone is not sufficient. So theconsideration of other concepts appears to benecessary, including the morphology of the interphase,the acid-base reactions at the interface, the surfaceenergy and the wetting phenomena.

3.2.1 Change of Surface Tension

The surface energy of fibres is closely related to thehydrophilic nature of the fibre. Some investigations areconcerned with methods to decrease hydrophilicity.Silane coupling agents may contribute hydrophilicproperties to the interface, especially when amino-functional silanes, such as epoxies and urethane silanes,are used as primers for reactive polymers. The primermay supply much more amine functionality than canpossibly react with the resin at the interphase. Thoseamines which cannot react are hydrophilic andtherefore responsible for the poor water resistance ofbonds. An effective way to use hydrophilic silanes isto blend them with hydrophobic silanes such aspheniltrimethoxysilane. Mixed siloxane primers alsohave an improved thermal stability, which is typicalfor aromatic silicones.

Ismail and co-workers (263, 264) treated oil palmempty fruit bunch and coir fibres with silane couplingagent. They found that the addition of silane increasedthe scorch time and cure time and enhanced the tensilestrength, tensile modulus, tear strength, fatigue lifeand hardness.

3.2.2 Impregnation of Fibres

A better combination of fibre and polymer is achievedby impregnation of the reinforcing fabrics with polymermatrices compatible to the polymer. For this purposepolymer solutions or dispersions of low viscosity areused. For a number of interesting polymers, the lackof solvents limits the use of the method ofimpregnation.

When cellulose fibres are impregnated with a butylbenzyl phthalate plastified polyvinyl chloride (PVC)dispersion, excellent partitions can be achieved inpolystyrene (PS). This significantly lowers the viscosityof the compound and of the plasticator and results inco-solvent action for both PS and PVC.

Valadez and co-workers (359) found that pre-impregnated henequen-HDPE composites gave betterfibre wetting. NafpurTec from Hennecke comprises aflax/sisal (331) (50/50) blend impregnated with theBaypreg PU system to produce a finished, lightweightproduct which is 35-45% urethane and 55-65% naturalfibres. It is being used in automotive interior parts.

Jute fibre (306, 406) and flax fibre (214, 257) reinforcedcomposites have also utilised impregnation methods.

3.2.3 Mercerisation

An old method of cellulose fibre modification ismercerisation, it has been widely used on cottontextiles. Mercerisation is an alkali treatment of cellulosefibres which depends on the type and concentration ofthe solution, temperature, time of treatment, the tensionof the material as well as on the additives. At presentthere is a tendency to use mercerisation on other naturalfibres as well (359).

Alkalisation (311) successfully modifies the structureof natural fibres (hemp, sisal, jute and kapok) and thesemodifications will most likely improve the performanceof natural fibre composites by promoting better fibreto resin bonding.


17

Bledzki and co-workers (349, 370) examined alkalitreated jute fibres. Shrinkage of fibres during treatmenthad significant effects on the fibre structure, as well ason fibre mechanical properties such as tensile strengthand modulus. Alkali treated jute yarns exhibited anincrease in yarn tensile strength and modulus of about120% and 150% respectively. These changes inmechanical properties were effected by modifying thefibre structure, basically via the crystallinity ratio,degree of polymerisation and orientation.

Sisal fibre (154, 193, 216, 289), coir (198), jute (221,291, 296) and flax fibre (314) have also beenmercerised and their properties evaluated.

Figure 5 (452, 453) shows the results of fibreextraction pull-out tests where adhesion is plottedagainst treatment time for sisal and coir fibres in apolyester matrix.

The cohesion of polyester resin to alkalised sisalfibres went from 10 to 15.5 N and the adhesionincreased correspondingly up to an alkalising timeof around 90 hours. After that the pull-out load andthe adhesion decreased distinctly. A similar resultwas found for debonding stress with coir fibre-polyester composites.

Figure 5b

The effect of soaking time on the debonding stress (453)

Figure 5a

Plot of adhesion and pull-out load of sisal versus soaking time (452)


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3.2.4 Chemical Coupling

An effective method of chemical modification ofnatural fibres is graft copolymerisation which improvesthe interfacial adhesion in composites. The fibre surfaceis treated with a compound that forms a bridge ofchemical bonds between fibre and matrix. This reactionis initiated by free radicals of the cellulose molecule.The cellulose is treated with an aqueous solutioncontaining selected ions and is exposed to high energyradiation. Then the cellulose molecule cracks andradicals are formed. Afterwards the radical sites of thecellulose are treated with a suitable solution, compatiblewith the polymer matrix. The resulting copolymerpossesses properties with characteristics of both fibrouscellulose and grafted polymer. For example, thetreatment of cellulose fibres with hot maleic-polypropylene anhydride (MAH-PP) copolymers,provides covalent bonds across the interface with thematrix (451). The mechanism of reaction can be dividedinto two steps as shown in Figure 6.

After this treatment the surface energy of the fibres isincreased to a level much closer to the surface energyof the matrix. Thus, a better wettability and a higherinterfacial adhesion is obtained. The graftcopolymerisation method is effective, but complex.

Many publications have discussed the effectiveness ofmaleic anhydride-polypropylene copolymers (MAH-PP)as a coupling agent in natural fibre reinforcedpolypropylene:

• flax (310, 403, 436),

• sisal (218),

• bamboo (391),

• kenaf (426),

• wheat straw (441),

• oil palm (268) and

Figure 6

Treatment of cellulose fibres with hot MAH-PP

(2) Esterification of cellulose

HO C CH2

CH

O

CHO

O

CΔ O

C

C CH2

CH

C + H2O

O

O

PP c

hain

PP c

hain

(1) Activation of the copolymer by heating (t = 170 °C) (before fibre treatment)


19

• wood fibres (165, 166, 270, 280, 297, 344, 392,398, 400, 404, 413).

Mieck and co-workers (448) determined increasedshear and tensile strengths of about 100% and 25%respectively for flax-polypropylene composites whenthe coupling agent was applied to the flax fibre surfacesbefore the composite was processed. Theseimprovements depend on the grafting rate and on theaverage molar mass of the grafted copolymer.

Mishra and co-workers (288, 324, 399, 402) examinedthe influence of MAH-PP on banana, hemp and sisalfibre reinforced composites. Treated fibres showed thatthe absorption of steam and water, thickness swellingis less than the untreated respective fibre composites.The shore-D hardness was generally higher forcomposites based on maleic anhydride-treated fibres.

Gassan and co-workers (338) demonstrated that fibrepull-out is reduced after modification with MAH-PPfor jute reinforced composites. This improved fibre-matrix adhesion further leads to a lower creep strain inthe outer fibres.

Matuana and co-workers (400) observed that theeffectiveness of maleated polypropylene in improvingthe mechanical properties of wood fibre reinforcedcomposites could be attributed to the compatibilisationeffect which was accomplished by reducing the totalwood fibre surface energy, improving the polymermatrix impregnation, improving fibre dispersion andorientation and enhancing the interfacial adhesionthrough mechanical interlocking.

Aranguren and co-workers (384) treated wood fibreswith MAH-PP and alkali. No improvement in themechanical behaviour of polyester-wood fibrescomposites occurred with only alkali-treatment, whilethe composites treated with MAH-PP exhibited betterperformance under compressive load.

Gassan and co-workers (410) investigated the influenceof MAH-PP treatment conditions on the modulus ofjute fibre reinforced PP. This treatment improveswetting, resulting in better fibre-PP matrix adhesioncompared to that of unmodified fibre matrix systems.

4 Processing of Natural FibreReinforced Plastics

Drying of fibres before processing is an importantfactor, as water on the fibre surface acts like a

separating agent in the fibre-matrix interface.Additionally, during the reaction process, voids appearin the matrix due to the evaporation of water. Bothphenomena lead to a decrease in the mechanicalproperties of natural fibre reinforced composites.Fibre drying can be carried out in a vacuum oven atdifferent temperatures.

4.1 Thermoplastics

The lower thermal stability of natural and wood fibres(up to 230 °C) limits the number of thermoplasticswhich can be used as matrix material for composites.Only those thermoplastics whose processingtemperature does not exceed 230 °C, are useable fornatural and wood fibre thermoplastics. These aregenerally polyolefins, such as polyethylene andpolypropylene. Technical thermoplastics, likepolyamides, polyesters and polycarbonates requireprocessing temperatures in excess of 250 °C and aretherefore not useable for such composite processingwithout fibre degradation.

4.1.1 Extrusion

The extrusion process involves two types of extruder.Twin-screw extruders dominate today’s market dueto their compounding capability and functionalversatility. Twin-screw extruders continuously mixand devolatilise wood fibres and other naturalcellulosic materials with plastics. High-speed twin-screw extruders have been used to produce pellets,which are then processed in a separate operation on asingle-screw extruder to make an extruded part. Asuitable combination of process variables wasrequired to limit the thermal degradation of the woodand natural fibres.

Twin-screw extruders have been widely used forwood/plastic composites (149, 176, 187, 246, 262,293, 317, 318, 360, 366. Yeh Wang and co-workers(152) experimented with the influence of processingparameters on the properties of wood flour filledpolyethylene using co-rotating twin-screw extruders.A suitable combination of processing variablesincluding screw speed, screw configuration,throughput rate and barrel temperatures werenecessary to limit thermal degradation and darkeningof the filler. Similar investigations have been carriedout for flax fibre (183, 300, 362), rice hulls (207) andbamboo fibre (358) reinforced composites.


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4.1.2 Injection Moulding

Injection moulding requires a polymer with a lowmolecular weight to maintain low viscosity. Bycontrast, extrusion requires a polymer with a highermolecular weight for better melt strength. Injectionmoulding differs from profile extrusion in that afterthe material is heated, it is pumped into a permanentmould, where it takes shape and cools. The mould isthen opened and the finished part discharged. Injection-moulded parts range from buttons to computer casesto automotive components. Currently, the primaryapplication of high thermoplastic contentlignocellulosic composites is for interior door panelsand trunk liners in automobiles.

Johnson Controls Automotive (312) presented anoverview of the state of the art of the use of plastic-natural fibre composite materials for interior car partsand the technologies used to produce such parts(injection moulding, low pressure injection mouldingand coinjection moulding). Research has beenperformed on several kinds of natural and wood fibre(jute, flax, kenaf, eucalyptus) for applications in semi-finished products, i.e., granules (short natural fibre) forthe injection moulding process.

Research by the automotive industry (363) into plantfibre composites is focusing on two processing routes:injection moulding for non-structural parts and resintransfer moulding for semi-structural parts.

The injection moulding process has been applied towood fibre (355), flax fibre (361, 408), hemp (411),jute (396), rice hulls (173) and sisal fibre (197, 356)filled composites.

Abbes and co-workers (365) tried to optimise theinjection moulding process using available mouldingsoftware. Two sets of process simulation software wereused, namely C-MOLD and STRIMFLOW. It wasshown that the conventional continuous mechanicsequations can be used for modelling the injectionmoulding of thermoplastic-cellulose composites.

4.1.3 Compression Moulding

Thermoplastic fibre-reinforced composites aredistinguished from thermoset reinforced compositesprimarily by a high elongation at break, short cycletimes and the possibility of recycling. The compressionmoulding technique has proved suitable for theproduction of profiles with any thermoplastic prepreg.

Compression moulding brings the thermoplasticprepreg gently to the required shape without overcompressing the material. The different layerorientations are thus retained after moulding.

Johnson Controls (164) compared new materials andprocesses for the manufacture of automotive doorpanels. The material was Fibropur, a natural fibre mat(flax, sisal, hemp, kenaf) sprayed with PU-resin andprocessed by compression moulding.

Flax fibre (147, 167, 362), wood fibre (184) and jutefibre (357) reinforced composites have also beenprepared by the compression moulding process.

Iannace and co-workers (353) prepared biocompositesbased on sea algae fibres and a biodegradablethermoplastic matrix and investigated the effects ofprocessing, such as compression moulding andcalendering on the mechanical properties of thematerials.

4.1.4 Express Process

Extrusion press processing (express-processing) wasdeveloped for the production of flax fibre reinforcedpolypropylene at the research centre of DaimlerChrysler, Ulm, Germany. In this process natural fibrenon-wovens and thermoplastic melt films arealternately deposited in a mould. The thermoplasticmelt films are laid on by a mobile extruder. If thisprocess is optimally adapted, a single passage by theextruder suffices. The structural order consists of threelayers: two layers of non-wovens on the bottom andone on top with the melt film in between. The valuesfor the tensile strength plotted against density for flaxfibre PP composites exceed the characteristics valuesof sisal fibre reinforced PP composites. Figure 7 showsthe tensile strength of different fibre reinforced PPcomposites prepared by express processing (380).

A special production process for natural fibre matreinforced thermoplastics (NMT) has been developedby BASF AG, Germany (450).

NMT products have been tested including flax fibre-PP composites (211, 313, 319, 450) and the propertiescompared with glass fibre mat thermoplasticcomposites.

Bruijin (210) has highlighted the advantages anddisadvantages of natural fibre mat thermoplastics inautomotive applications.


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4.1.5 Mixing

Mixing is of key importance for obtaining materialswith appropriate processing characteristics. Before anatural or wood fibre-plastic composite can beprocessed into a final product, it will usually have toundergo mixing or compounding. It is not merely thebase materials, but also the choice of additives that willdetermine the properties of the finished product. Mixingis the process of imparting the desired distribution totwo or more components that may be present in solidor liquid form. For mixing or compounding,thermokinetic mixers are divided into two typesdepending on the mixing system: continuous mixersand batch mixers.

Balatinecz and co-workers (418) studied the feasibilityof developing a continuous compounding process forwood fibre/thermoplastic composites using a Szegomill in comparison with a thermokinetic Gelimat mixer.Composites with 30 wt% wood fibre were prepared byboth compounding processes and their mechanicalproperties were evaluated.

Chopped jute fibre and kenaf fibre PP composites (440);waste wood fibre (mixture of plywood, particle boardand fibre board), kenaf and waste jute fibre polyestercomposites (445); and kenaf fibre PP composites (446)have also been compounded by mixer.

Bornemann (a.9) has reviewed the use of batch typehigh speed mixers for compounding natural and wood

fibre reinforced composites. The advantages, design,operation and optimisation of processing throughfurther modification was evaluated.

4.2 Thermosets

Thermoset polymers form the matrix in filled plasticsand fibre-reinforced composites used in a diversity ofproducts. These range from consumer items andautomotive body panels to advanced composites forprinted circuit boards, aerospace structural componentsand expensive, high-performance sports equipment.

The economically most attractive glass-fibre reinforcedplastics for special technical uses are produced by resintransfer moulding (RTM) and winding technology, etc.,while semi-finished products are made from sheetmoulding compound (SMC) and bulk mouldingcompound (BMC) systems.

4.2.1 Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM)

Resin transfer moulding (RTM) describes a family ofprocesses for the fabrication of composite components.The distinguishing feature of RTM is the transfer ofthermosetting resin from some external supply into amatched mould that contains fibre reinforcement in theform of a mat or preform. This is facilitated by apressure difference between the resin supply and the

Figure 7

Tensile strength of different types of fibre reinforced composites, produced by express processing (380)


22

mould cavity. RTM provides a convenient fabricationroute for a variety of applications ranging from highstress components with directional reinforcements tonon-structural items using modest levels of randomreinforcement.

Richardson and co-workers (219) concluded that RTMof natural plant fibres as reinforcement in polymericcomposites provide additional technological,economical, ecological and environmental benefits. TheRTM filling process has significant effects on differentaspects, such as fibre wetting out and impregnation,injection gate design, dry patch and void formation.

The RTM process has also been tested for flax fibre (209,341), hemp (215) and sisal (238) plastic composites andthe physico-mechanical properties evaluated.

4.2.2 Sheet Moulding Compound (SMC)

In the automobile and electronic industries, big amountsof pressed parts from SMC or BMC are used forbumpers, trunk covers and spoilers.

In Figure 8 (a.10) pressed SMC materials based onflax fibres are compared with those made of glassfibres. This shows that the glass fibre reinforcedmaterial has higher characteristic values except fortensile strength. However, if the measured values arecompared with reference to density, the results of theflax fibre based SMC moulded plastics are located inthe same range as the glass fibre SMC moulded types.

5 Properties of Natural and WoodFibre Composites

5.1 Mechanical Properties

There are several mechanical properties that are importantto know about each natural fibre. Tensile, flexural, impactand creep are some of the important considerations.

Natural and wood fibres are in general suitable toreinforce plastics (thermosets as well as thermoplastics)due to their relatively high strength and stiffness andlow density. Table 5 (a.11) shows that the characteristicvalues for flax and soft wood kraft fibres reach levelsapproaching the values for glass fibres.

5.1.1 Tensile Properties

Tensile properties are some of the most widely testedproperties of natural and wood fibre reinforcedcomposites. The fibre strength can be an importantfactor in selecting a specific natural fibre for a specificapplication.

Investigations about this behaviour have covered theeffect of coupling agents (166, 185, 264), differentmatrices (150, 200) and chemical treatment (234) forwood fibre composites, and all of these factors canimprove tensile properties.

Fossen and co-workers (208) showed that adding flaxfibre to caseinate plastic gave composites with a six-

Figure 8

Characteristic values of glass fibre and flax fibre SMC moulded plastics(absolute values and in reference to density)


23

fold increase in tensile modulus and a five-fold increasein tensile strength. Flax fibres have also been testedwith Duralin treatment (169), with MAH-PP (252) andwith alkali treatment (339).

Khan and co-workers (291, 321) investigated theinfluence of surface modifications (dewaxing, 5% alkalitreatment, grafting of acrylonitrile and gamma radiation)on jute fibre reinforced biodegradable composites, andfound a significant increase in tensile strength.

Investigations have also been carried out into the tensileproperties of composites with jute (336, 415), sisal(206, 235, 301, 342, 364), coir (170), pineapple leaffibre (100, 327, 346, 444) and bagasse (254, 326).

The tensile strength of natural fibres also depends onthe length of the specimens which is of primaryimportance regarding reinforcing efficiency. Figure 9illustrates that the tensile strength of flax fibres issignificantly more dependent on the length of the fibrethan is the case for glass fibres (a.12). Flax is comparedwith DDA flax (steam explosion) and glass fibre.

5.1.2 Flexural Properties

Flexural properties have also been widely investigated.

d’Almeida (181) showed that on a cost basis thecomposites fabricated with high flexural strength,

natural and wood fibres can even compete with glassfibre-mat polyester matrix composites.

Flexural properties have been extensively investigatedfor wood fibre (159, 165, 199, 250), flax fibre (177,212, 278), jute fibre (299, 371), coir (325) and oil palmfibre (158), looking at the influence of mouldingparameters, chemical treatment, esterification, differentwood species, fibre loading and surface wettability.

Gassan and co-workers (340) showed the effect ofwater absorption-desorption cycles on jute reinforcedcomposites. Silane treatment of the jute fibre led to anincrease of up to 30% in flexural strength. Absorption-desorption cycles of fibres changed the fracturemechanisms.

5.1.3 Impact Properties

Nowadays, there is a lot of research going on into theimpact properties of natural and wood fibre reinforcedcomposites. Impact properties were examined for:

• wood/sisal (235),

• jute (178),

• oil palm (239),

• maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (151, 189),

• silane treated fibre (307), and

• degraded fibre composites (258).

Figure 9

Dependence of tensile strength on the test length, flax fibres compared to textile glass fibres (a.12)


24

Bledzki and co-workers (213, 305, 328) introducedan impact falling weight testing device. Jutereinforced composite materials were impacted on aninstrumented low-velocity non-penetration falling-weight impact tester.

Matuana and co-workers (200, 273) investigated theeffects of impact modifiers on the properties of rigidPVC/wood fibre composites, which showed thatimpact resistance was strongly dependent upon thetype and content of impact modifiers, increasingsignificantly with modifier concentration.

Gassan and co-workers (a.11) have performedimpact investigations on jute-polypropylenecomposites with and without coupling agent (MAH-PP) (338). It turned out that damage initiation canbe shifted to higher forces with strong fibre-matrixadhesion, as composites with a weak fibre-matrixadhesion break down at smaller forces at a loadperpendicular to the fibre.

Bledzki and co-workers investigated the impactproperties of hard wood fibre-PP composites. Figure10 (a.13) shows that with the addition of the couplingagent MAH-PP, impact strength (maximum force)increased significantly and lead to a decrease of loss

energy and damping index of composites comparedto untreated composites where damping indexdecreased 60% maximum (Figure 11 (a.13)) .

5.2 Physical Properties

Natural and wood fibre when dry, has uniqueproperties. But the understanding of water-polymerinteractions in polymeric composite materials iscritical to the prediction of their behaviour inapplications where they are exposed to water or ahumid environment. The application of natural andwood fibre reinforcement is limited mainly becauseof the changes in geometry due to swelling.

5.2.1 Water Absorption

Drying of fibres before processing is an important factorbecause water on the surface acts like a separating agentin the fibre-matrix interface. For jute-epoxy composites(439), the tensile strength of maximally pre-dried fibres(moisture content approximately 1 wt.%) rises by about10% compared to minimally dried fibres (moisturecontent approximately 10 wt.%).

Figure 10

Influence of fibre treatment on force-deflection behaviour of hard wood-polypropylene composites comparinguntreated and MAH-PP treated fibres (impact energy = 1.69 J, fibre content = 30 vol.%, thickness of

specimens = 2 mm)


25

Water absorption tests on maleic anhydride modifiedwood fibre reinforced composites (270) indicated thatthey were more hydrophobic than the unmodified ones.This was also shown by Mitra and co-workers (282)for acrylonitrile modified jute fibre composites, waterabsorption was much reduced for cold and boiling watercompared to unmodified jute fibre composites.

Bledzki and co-workers found that jute fibres lost 30%of their tenacity after exposure to water while thetenacity of flax fibres remained unaffected (339).Woodflour-plastic composites based on PP, PE andUPVC were found to be as strong as medium densityfibreboard (MDF) and superior to wooden materialsdue to their lower water absorption on exposure towater (323). Modification by crosslinking andacetylation of cellulose was found to reduce thehygroscopicity of wood and wood composites (378).

Thomas and co-workers (382) have evaluated theinfluence of fibre loading, temperature and chemicaltreatment on the water uptake of pineapple leaf fibre-LDPE composites.

Tshabalala and co-workers (354) examined the surfacecharacteristics of wood fibres and attempted tocorrelate these to water adsorption behaviour. Theyshowed that a desirable feature for wood/plasticcomposites was optimal adhesion to non-wood

matrices and for fibreboard, particleboard andflakeboard resistance to degradation mediated bywater vapour adsorption.

5.2.2 Swelling

The hydroxyl groups (-OH) in cellulose, hemicelluloseand lignin build a large amount of hydrogen bondsbetween the macromolecules of wood polymers.Exposing the wood to humidity, causes these bonds tobe broken. The hydroxyl groups then form newhydrogen bonds with water molecules which inducethe swelling illustrated in Figure 12 (378).

Thomas and co-workers (168) investigated short sisalfibre reinforced styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR)composites using the restricted equilibrium swellingmethod. The influence of fibre loading, fibreorientation, bonding agent and variations indimensions on swelling behaviour of the compositeswere evaluated. Test solvents included benzene,toluene and xylene.

Chauhan and co-workers (290) showed that swellingof graft copolymers of jute fibre reinforced compositesincreases as a function of grafting and at a particulargraft level follows the order: dimethyl formamide>H2O>isopropanol.

Figure 11

Influence of fibre surface treatment on the loss energy and damping of hard wood fibre-polypropylenecomposites (impact energy = 1.69 J, thickness of specimens = 2 mm)


26

5.2.3 Moisture Content

Moisture content at a given relative humidity can havea great effect on the performance of a composite madefrom natural and wood fibres. Different fibres absorbdifferent amounts of water. For example, a compositemade from pennywort fibres would have a muchgreater moisture content at 90 per cent relativehumidity than would a composite made from bamboofibres. The pennywort product would be much moreprone to decay as compared to the bamboo product.Table 6 shows the equilibrium moisture content ofsome natural and wood fibres.

Marchovich and co-workers (330) investigated themoisture diffusion in unsaturated polyester-woodflour composites kept at room temperature andexposed to different relative humidities. The effectof size and shape of specimen, types of wood flours,neat resin and composites were also evaluated.

Hargitai and co-workers (249, 252, 253) investigatedwidely the effect of moisture content on flax fibre-PPcomposites, including the effect of adding thecoupling agent maleic anhydride graftedpolypropylene.

5.3 Biological Properties

If natural fibre/plastic composites are used outdoors,they will be exposed to moisture, light, temperaturechanges, freezing, thawing, and biological attacks byfungi and bacteria (236).

Figure 12

Schematic illustration of wood swelling process onexposure to water

WOOD

OH OH OH

OH OH

OH OH

OH OHOH

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WOOD

OH OH OH

OH OH

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essagaB 4.4 8.8 8.51

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nepsA 9.4 1.11 5.12

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htnicayhretaW 2.6 7.61 2.63

trowynneP 6.6 3.81 8.65

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27

The biological properties of natural fibre/plasticcomposites are dependent on the load of naturalmaterial in the matrix and on the surface conditions ofsamples produced. These properties are significantlydifferent to the biological properties of the naturalcomponents used. The improved spectrum of propertiesis the basis for success in the market. Wood/plasticcomposites are sold for exterior application as decayresistant materials that require no maintenance. Theplastic matrix is presumed to protect the fibre or woodparticles against biological attack. However, woodparticles remains susceptible to fungal degradationsince certain amounts of water can be absorbed (258,330). In order to prevent potential decay, borates, suchas zinc borate, can be incorporated as effective andleach-resistant preservatives (a.14).

In comparison to the number of physical andmechanical investigations carried out on wood, naturalfibres and plastics the number of investigations on thebiological properties of composites is limited andresults are inconsistent. The actual lifetime of wood/plastic lumber used for exterior applications is underdebate (a.15).

5.3.1 Fungi

Natural fibre and wood rotting fungi need a suitabletemperature, oxygen and water supply for their growth.Water is the key parameter in decay mechanisms andin controlling durability of decay (a.16).

Wood/plastic composites are relatively immune tofungal attacks since the plastic matrix largelyencapsulates the wood particles. There are recentreports describing fungal attacks on wood and naturalfibre filled materials (304, a.17). The decay happensat far lower rates than those found for natural wood.Traditional methods of evaluating biological durabilitysuch as weight loss and visual inspection seem not tobe sufficient to adequately describe the extent of decay.Inconsistency in the different reports suggest thatmethods of manufacturing may be the reason fordifferent fungal decay results. Decay susceptibilityincreases with wood loading (a.18).

5.3.2 Bacteria

Bacteria tend to colonise natural fibres and wood withhigh moisture content. They can affect woodpermeability, attack the structure and work togetherwith other bacteria or fungi. Lignocellulose is degradedin a very slow process (a.19).

Whereas bacterial degradation of natural fibres and woodhas been investigated, the literature about bacterialbiodegradation of plastic composites is limited.

6 Biologically Degradable CompositeMaterials

Biologically degradable composite material hasbecome interesting in recent years as the recyclingcharacteristics of composites are considered to beimportant for society, producers and consumers. Thediscussions about preservation of natural resources andrecycling have led to increased efforts towards thedevelopment of biomaterials. Due to environmentalconcerns and the demands of legislative authorities,researchers are looking to replace traditionalcomposites such as polymer/glass and polymer/aramidwith biologically degradable composite materials, i.e.,natural fibre reinforced biologically degradablepolymers (64, 298).

Biodegradation takes place through the action ofenzymes and other agents of decompositionassociated with living organisms (bacteria, fungi,etc.); further, abiotic reactions like photodegradation,oxidation and hydrolysis should be consideredamong the processes (a.20).

Although all relevant international standardorganisations (i.e., ASTM, CEN, DIN, ISO, ISR, andother) are developing definitions of biodegradablematerials, a worldwide standard has not yet beenestablished.

Numerous biodegradable polymers have been developedwhich can be applied as matrices and in combination withplant fibres for the development of new composites. Theseinclude: cellulose acetate, copolyester, polycaprolactone(PCL), modified polyethylene terephthalate, polyglycolide(PGA), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polylactic acid(PLA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), starch and starchblends, etc.

Natural fibres are available at low prices. Biodegradablepolymers are still more expensive than standardpolymers, however, it is expected that future massproduction will lead to an acceptable and competitiveprice level. Starch converted to thermoplastic materialoffers many marketable products.

Compostable materials have been described usingcellulose, starch and casein embedding flax and woodpulp (208).


28

Tests with different flax fibre reinforced biodegradablepolymers show that the tensile strength and Young’smodulus of these composites are significantlyinfluenced by the matrix used and the adhesion betweenfibre and matrix. Another recent approach is to combinesoy oil resins with natural fibres (209).

Surface modification of natural fibres contributes tosignificant increases in both the tensile and flexuralstrength of composites.

7 Applications of Natural FibreReinforced Polymers

Applications of natural fibre composites have beenreported since the first plastic materials (boththermosets as well as thermoplastics) were introducedto the market (175, 272, 378).

Countries like India have been producing naturalcomposites for many applications such as pipes, panelsand pultruded profiles for many years, however, NorthAmerica and Western Europe re-invented natural fibrecomposites only in recent years after critical discussionabout the preservation of natural resources led to a highinterest in renewable raw materials. Natural fibres usedin composites offer several advantages, such as no netcarbon dioxide release and 40% less weight comparedwith glass fibre.

Today, renaissance in the use of natural fibres asreinforcements in technical applications is taking placein the automotive industry (363).

Wood fibre/plastics have found many applicationsreplacing natural wood or pure plastics.

7.1 Automotive Applications

There are remarkable trends towards the replacementof established materials by several types of plant fibresembedded in plastic matrices. The automotive industryis using flax, hemp, jute, sisal, kenaf, wood or grain-based products as reinforcement. The most commonlyused plastic matrix is polypropylene although manypolyurethane (PU) applications are emerging (156, 204,256, 376, 380).

Less weight in comparison to glass fibre filled materialsand no net carbon dioxide release make the newmaterials attractive for car manufacturers.

Interior trim components such as dashboards, and socalled ‘Green Door Panels’ using PP and natural fibres(hemp, kenaf) are produced by Johnson Controls Inc.,for DaimlerChrysler (202, 203).

Soft trim parts made of PUR systems using naturalfibre reinforcements were developed by Bayer (155).Interior panels of Audi’s energy efficient A2 are madeof natural fibre (flax, sisal or hemp) filled PU thathas an extremely low mass per unit, but very highdimensional stability (247).

The Adam Opel AG uses composites made of flaxfibre and polypropylene in the inner door trims of themodel ‘Astra’ (a.22).

7.2 Building Applications

In contrary to Asia, where natural fibre reinforcedmaterials have been used for buildings and similarapplications for many years, application in thewestern world started in the mid-nineties in Japanand in the US followed by Europe recently (196).

In this field of application, wood fibre filledmaterials are the main products. They are used asalternatives for natural wood (345).

The market for wood polymer composites hasrecorded growth rates of 100% over the past 5 yearsin the USA. The group of materials covers a widerange of polymer matrix types including PE, PP andPVC. Finished products such as decking, claddingand window frames are very successful in themarkets. The market volume in the US for buildingand garden products was 300,000 t/y (196). Decksare the most important application in the US. Almostall suppliers of engineered lumber in the US areserving the deck market.

Nexwood Industries Brampton (ON, USA), havedeveloped a prototype house for the Asian markets.Two million units are expected to be sold annually(a.23).

In Japan, wood composites are applied for stairs,handrails and bathrooms as demonstrated by MizawaHomes, a manufacturer of pre-manufactured houses.

Window and door profile manufacturer are anotherindustrial segment for composites (146, 316, 347).


29

7.3 Furniture and Panels

Recently, furniture applications based on wood flourfilled materials have been reported from Canada, Japanand Germany (222, a.24).

7.4 Aerospace Applications

Due to advantages of weight, mechanical stability andprice, interest in the application of natural fibrereinforced materials is growing in the aerospaceindustry in the US and Europe.

Applications for the use of such materials based onthermoplastics are being checked for approval by theUS Federal Aviation Authority and the UK CivilAviation Authority (52, 186).

7.5 Others

Natural fibre composites are being used in benches,dog kennels, sheds, flower pots, partitions and fenceson the Japanese market along with decks, pavementsand balcony boards.

Another Japanese development is weather resistant andeffective noise protection walls along the highwayswhich is a project supported by the Ministry ofTransport (a.24).

Flooring products replacing hardwood materials areoffered by SWH Technologies of Canada (284).

Pallets made of composite fibre reinforced polyolefincomposite are the subject of a US patent (386).

8 Recent Developments in Naturaland Wood Fibre Reinforcement

of Polymers

Wood and other natural fibres have become a majorpart of thermoplastic filler and reinforcementdevelopments worldwide. Agriculture and otherindustries see opportunities for developing thesematerials (335, a.25-a.27).

The goal for the creation of bio-based products set bythe US government is a pacemaker for industry,

forestry and agriculture. North American demand fornatural fibres in plastic composites is forecast to reach15 to 50% annually.

Thus far European efforts have been concentrated onnatural fibre reinforced plastics for automotiveapplications, due to the European automotiverecycling law, this development could be interruptedas natural fibre composites may not be economical torecover (259). Many of the European developmentshave a chance to be transferred to North America andfind application in new car models.

North America is by far the leading wood plasticmarket with high annual growth rates and will holdthis position. However, the trend to produceengineered wood will reach Europe soon. Theambitious objective of the Dutch company TechwoodInternational B.V. to produce 50,000 houses for theCaribic will be signal for other European enterprises.

Window profiles are expected to be produced soon inEurope after Anderson in the US demonstrated thefeasibility of this market segment. Window profilesare in position to compete with wooden windowconstructions because they are maintenance free andmoisture resistant. Since PVC is under pressure fromenvironmentalists this market share can be occupiedas well. Not only the UK, the Netherlands, andScandinavia but also Austria, Italy and Germany areconsidering a higher involvement in the wood plasticmarket. The increased activities of equipmentproducers offering suitable extrusion and injectionmoulding machinery is a significant indication of thistrend (146, 333). The furniture industry in Japan andGermany is just making the first steps in creating newofferings based on wood plastic materials.

Recently, the concept of creating microcellularfoamed structures in natural and wood fibrecomposites as a means of improving the shortcomings(mainly weight reduction) has successfully beendemonstrated.

The production of microcellular foamed structures inpolymer/wood fibre composites through a batchfoaming process has been investigated (160, 373, 394,416, 417, 423, 432, 435). The batch foaming processused to generate cellular foamed structures in thecomposites is not likely to be implemented in theindustrial production of foams because it is not cost-effective. The microcellular batch foaming processis time consuming due to the multiple steps in theproduction of foamed samples.


30

The manufacture of polymer/wood fibre compositefoams in an extrusion process has also beeninvestigated (134, 136, 179, 343, a.28, a.29)considering factorial design, cellular morphologyand cell density.

Park and co-workers (153) have been experimentingwith two system configurations (tandem extrusionsystem versus single extruder system) for woodfibre/polymer composites to demonstrate the systemeffect on cell morphology and foam properties.

Microcellular foams containing flax fibre as well aswood fibre in an injection moulding process havebeen introduced, the density was reduced by around25% (a.30, a.31).

Natural fibre (jute and flax fibre) reinforced epoxyfoams (a.32) and polyurethane microfoams (81) havealso been introduced.

The effect of chemical foaming agents on theprocessing and properties of wood plastic compositeshas been of interest, because properties such asinsulation values, shrinkage, distortion and stiffnesscan be influenced positively. The benefits of usingchemical foaming agents were considered includingconsistent process control, nucleating effects whichcan solve the moisture problems, improvements inmechanical properties and improved wood/plasticcompatibility (157).

A promising potential application in the near futurefor wood/plastic composite is the replacement ofchromated copper arsenate (CCA) pressure treatedwood products for landscaping and playgrounds.After having found that CCA treated materials cancause liver cancer, authorities in the US and Europestarted actions to replace them.

Hetfleisch has prepared the deck body and basin ofa boat with sisal fibre mat using a thermoformingprocess (a.33).

Since the demand for sustainable and renewablematerials is rising biodegradable polymers have hada chance to grow during recent years. Recent workon biocomposites could prove them to be compatiblein major technical aspects, however, cost reductionis required. The challenge lies in finding applicationswhich would consume sufficient amounts in orderto reduce and stabilise costs.

9 Conclusion

Over 100 years of development, scientific work andtechnical application into combining natural fibreswith both thermosets and thermoplastics, hasculminated in growing new markets and industries.Worldwide activities can be encountered,industrialised countries are always looking for newmaterials, agriculture and plant producing regionshoping for new fibre opportunities.

The advantages of natural fibres over traditionalreinforcing materials such as glass are lower cost,lower density, high toughness and environmentallyfriendly processes.

Figure 13 shows the mechanical properties of naturaland wood fibre reinforced composites compared toglass fibre mat thermoplastic (GMT) reinforcedcomposites. Due to the improving mechanicalproperties (tensile strength, charpy impact strength)of natural and wood fibre reinforced composites,which are increasing day by day, these compositesare taking their place in the world market with a goodreputation.

Much work has been done to optimise the interfacialadhesion between fibre and matrix. Various surfacemodifications of natural fibres such as alkalitreatment, acetylation, bleaching, isocyanatetreatment, vinyl grafting and treatment with couplingagents have been assessed. However, the success ofnatural fibre/plastic composites for industrialapplications depends on both economically viableproduction and mechanical and physicalperformance. The automotive industry is a sensitiveindicator of those requirements. The increasingacceptance by car makers demonstrates that naturalfibre reinforced plastics have become maturematerials. The growing number of publications inthe scientific literature proves the field of researchand development to be more active than ever. Also,the mushrooming number of international andregional conferences on natural and wood fibreplastics indicates the importance of the field ofinvestigation.

With efforts being made to introduce biodegradablepolymers and their composites on an industrial scale,a new chapter of development has been opened.


31

Additional References

a.1 W. Sonntag and W. Barthel, Proceedings of the4th International Wood and Natural FibreComposites Symposium, Kassel, Germany,2002, 1-1.

a.2 R.M. Rowell, Proceedings of the 3rdInternational Conference on Frontiers ofPolymers and Advanced Materials,Kualalumpur, Malaysia, 1995, New York,Plenum Press, 659.

a.3 M. Karus and M. Kaup, Technische Textilien,2001, 44, 258.

a.4 J.M. Dinwoodie, Wood: Nature’s Cellular,Polymeric Fibre-Composite, Institute ofMetals, 1989.

a.5 R. Lützkendorf, K.P. Mieck, T. Reußmann, A.Nechwatal and M. Eilers, Proceedings of the3rd International Wood and Natural FibreComposites Symposium, Kassel, Germany,2000, 7-1.

a.6 C.D. Römpp, Chemielexikon, Version 1.0,Georg Thieme Verlag, 1995.

a.7 H. Bosshard, Holzkunde, Birkhäuser VerlagBasel, 1984, 2. Auflage.

a.8 A.K. Bledzki and J. Gassan, 7th InternationalesTechtexil Symposium, Frankfurt, Germany,1995, 311.

a.9 H.J. Bornemann, Proceedings of the 4thInternational Wood and Natural FibreComposites Symposium, Kassel, Germany,2002, 13-1.

a.10 R. Kohler and M. Wedler, 6th InternationalesTechtexil Symposium, Frankfurt, Germany,1994.

a.11 A.K. Bledzki and J. Gassan, Progress inPolymer Science, 1999, 24, 221.

a.12 R. Kohler and M. Wedler, Landinfo, 1995, 3, 33.

a.13 O. Faruk, M. Huque and A.K. Bledzki, Poster,Proceedings of the 3rd International Wood andNatural Fibre Composites Symposium, Kassel,Germany, 2000, 30-1.

a.14 P. Laks, Protecting Wood Composites, PioneerMagazine, July 1995.

a.15 P.I. Morris and R. Cooper, Forest ProductsJournal, 1998, 48, 1, 86.

a.16 R.A. Zabel and J.J. Morell, WoodMicrobiology: Decay and its Prevention,Academic Press, 1992.

Figure 13

Potential properties of natural and wood fibre reinforced composites


32

a.17 B.W. English and R.H. Falk, Proceedings ofthe 2nd International Conference onWoodfiber-Plastic Composites, 1996, 189.

a.18 S.A. Verhey, P.E. Laks and D.L. Richter,Proceedings of the 6th InternationalConference on Woodfiber-Plastic Composites,2001, 79.

a.19 K.E.L. Erikson, R.A. Blanchette and P. Ander,Microbial and Enzymatic Degradation ofWood and Wood Components, Springer-Verlag, New York, 1990, 407.

a.20 A.C. Albertson and S. Karlson, Chemistry andTechnology of Biodegradable Polymers,Blacky, Glasgow, 1994.

a.21 MarTech, Biodegradable Polymers in NorthAmerica and Europe, New York, USA, 2002.

a.22 P. Walter, Proceedings of the 3rd InternationalWood and Natural Fibre CompositesSymposium, Kassel, Germany, 2000, 14-1.

a.23 Natural and Wood Fiber, 2002, 1, 1.

a.24 T. Kikuchi, Proceedings of the 3rdInternational Wood and Natural FibreComposites Symposium, Kassel, Germany,2000, 19-1.

a.25 J.H. Schut, Plastic Technology, 1999, 45, 3, 46.

a.26 C. Eckert, Opportunities of natural fibers inplastic composites, Proceedings of Progressin Woodfiber-Plastic Composites Conference,Toronto, Canada, 2000.

a.27 V.E. Sperber, Proceedings of the 4thInternational Wood and Natural FibreComposites Symposium, Kassel, Germany,2002, 3-1.

a.28 C.B. Park, G.M. Rizvi and H. Zhang,Proceedings of the 5th InternationalConference on Wood Fiber-PlasticComposites, 1999, Wisconsin, USA, 105.

a.29 L.M. Matuana, J.J. Balatinecz and C.B. Park,Proceedings of the 5th InternationalConference on Woodfiber-Plastic Composites,1999, Poster, Wisconsin, USA, 318.

a.30 W. Zhang, Ph.D. Thesis, University of Kassel,Germany, 2001.

a.31 A.K. Bledzki and O. Faruk, Proceedings ofAntec 2002, Volume 2, 1897.

a.32 A.K. Bledzki and W. Zhang, Journal ofReinforced Plastics and Composites, 2001,20, 1263.

a.33 J. Hetfleisch. Kunststoffe, Special Edition,2002, 3.

Abbreviations and Acronyms

BMC bulk moulding compounds

CCA chromated copper arsenate

DDA Dampfdruckaufschluss (steamexplosion)

GMT glass fibre mat thermoplastics

GRP glass reinforced plastics

HDPE high density polyethylene

MAH-PP maleic anhydride-polypropylenecopolymer

MDF medium density fibreboard

NMT natural fibre mat reinforcedthermoplastics

PCL polycaprolactone

PE polyethylene

PGA polyglycolide

PHA polyhydroxyalkanoate

PLA polylactic acid

PP polypropylene

PS polystyrene

PU polyurethane

PVC polyvinyl chloride

PVOH polyvinyl alcohol

RTM resin transfer moulding

SBR styrene-butadiene rubber

SEM scanning electron micrographs

SMC sheet moulding compounds

UP unsaturated polyester resin

UPVC rigid polyvinyl chloride

References and Abstracts

© Copyright 2002 Rapra Technology Limited 33

Abstracts from the Polymer Library Database

Item 1Polymer Plastics Technology and Engineering

41, No.3, 2002, p.453-68

POLYPROPYLENE (PP) - ACACIA MANGIUMCOMPOSITES: THE EFFECT OFACETYLATION ON MECHANICAL ANDWATER ABSORPTION PROPERTIESAbdul Khalil H P S; Rozman H D; Ismail H; Rosfaizal;

Ahmad M N

Universiti Sains Malaysia

Acacia mangium wood flour (AMWF)-PP composites

were produced at different filler loadings (20, 30, 40 or

50 w/w) and mesh number (35, 60, 80 or 100 mesh). The

mechanical properties and water absorption properties of

acetylated AMWF (100 mesh only)-PP and unmodified

AMWF-PP composites were studied. Increasing the mesh

number of the unmodified AMWF resulted in increased

flexural and impact properties. The flexural modulus

increased with increasing filler loading, but the flexural

strength and impact strength decreased. Water absorption

and thickness swelling increased with increasing mesh

number and filler loading, which was attributed to the

presence of hydrophilic hydroxyl groups in the filler.

Modified AMWF-PP composites showed higher

mechanical properties and good water resistance

compared with unmodified AMWF-PP composites at all

filler loadings. The failure mechanism was studied by

SEM. 23 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.862926


41, No.3, 2002, p.435-51

PHYSICO-MECHANICAL STUDIES OF WOODFIBER REINFORCED COMPOSITESBledzki A K; Faruk O; Huque M

Kassel,Universitat; Bangladesh,University of

Engineering & Technology

Wood-PP composites containing 30, 40 or 50% wood

fibres were prepared using a maleic anhydride grafted PP

copolymer (MAH-PP) coupling agent (5 or 10% of the

wood fibre content). Hard wood fibre-PP composites

showed a better performance than soft wood-PP fibre

composites. The mechanical properties of the composites

increased when the coupling agent was added. The tensile

strength increased by about 50% maximum with the

addition of MAH-PP (5%) at a hard wood fibre content

of 50%. The Charpy impact strength increased up to 20%

with the addition of MAH-PP (5%) at a hard wood fibre

content of 30%. The damping index decreased by 60%

with the addition of MAH-PP (10%) at a hard wood fibre

content of 50%. 16 refs.

BANGLADESH; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN

UNION; GERMANY; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.862925


41, No.3, 2002, p.419-33

WATER ABSORPTION BEHAVIOR AND ITSEFFECT ON TENSILE PROPERTIES OFETHYLENE-PROPYLENE-DIENE-TERPOLYMER/POLYPROPYLENE/FILLERTERNARY COMPOSITES: A PRELIMINARYSTUDYSiriwardena S; Ismail H; Ishiaku U S


The water absorption behaviour of white rice husk ash

(WRHA) and silica filled EPDM/PP ternary composites

and its effect on the tensile properties of the composites

were studied. The effects of filler type, sample preparation

(die cut or moulded) and dynamic vulcanisation of the

elastomer phase on the rate of water absorption and final

water uptake were investigated. Silica-filled composites

showed more water uptake at a higher rate than did

WRHA-filled composites and die cut samples absorbed

more water at a faster rate than die moulded samples. All

vulcanised composites showed a lower water uptake than

the unvulcanised ones. After immersion in water, the

tensile properties of the unvulcanised composites were

almost unaffected, whereas the vulcanised composites

showed increased tensile properties. None of the

composites reached the equilibrium state within the 40

day immersion period. The results were discussed. 16 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.862924

Item 4Journal of Applied Polymer Science

85, No.9, 29th Aug.2002, p.1961-9

KUDZU FIBER-REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITELuo X; Benson R S; Kit K M; Dever M

Tennessee,University

Polypropylene composites which are fibre-reinforced

with Kudzu were prepared, and their mechanical and

thermal properties determined. Kudzu is a legume that

is native to Japan and China, but is a major invasive

post in the USA. It has been suggested as a source of

reinforcing fibres. In the composite, maleic anhydride-

grafted polypropylene (MAPP) was used as a

compatibiliser to improve the adhesion between the fibre

and the polypropylene. Up to a concentration of 35

weight percent of MAPP a continuous improvement was

seen in the tensile properties. The tensile modulus


34 © Copyright 2002 Rapra Technology Limited

increased by 24 percent and the tensile strength by 54

percent. FTIR spectroscopy, SEM and DSC were both

used to characterise the composites. FTIR showed an

increase in hydrogen bonding with an increase in MAPP

content. 8 refs.

USA

Accession no.862884

Item 5Composite Interfaces

9, No.4, 2002, p.335-53

EFFECT OF FIBER SURFACE TREATMENTSON THE FIBER-MATRIX INTERACTION INBANANA FIBER REINFORCED POLYESTERCOMPOSITESPothan L A; George J; Thomas S

Bishop Moore College; Eindhoven,University of

Technology; Mahatma Gandhi,University

The surfaces of banana fibre were treated with various

silanes and alkali (sodium hydroxide) and characterised

by means of scanning electron microscopy and FTIR

spectroscopy. The effects of surface treatment on the

tensile, flexural and impact properties and interfacial

adhesion of composites made from the treated fibres and

a polyester resin were investigated and the influence of

fibre-matrix adhesion on the mechanical properties of

the composites examined. Changes in the surface

morphology and polarity of the treated fibres were also

analysed and the effectiveness of the various treatments

compared. 25 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.862465

Item 6Kunststoffe Plast Europe

92, No.7, July 2002, p.34-6

NATURAL FIBRE REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE. DIRECT PROCESSING OFNATURAL LONG FIBRES BY THEPLASTICISING COMPRESSION PROCESSReussman T; Miack K-P; Brussel R

Chemnitz,Technical University; Dieffenbacher AG

Refer to Kunststoffe, 92, No.7, 2002, p.86-9 for graphs

and tables. Brief details are given of the potential

properties of natural fibre-reinforced PP using long and

short fibre reinforcement. Changes in fibre content on

changes in mechanical properties are discussed.

EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.862422

Item 7Engineer

291, No.7609, 9th-29th Aug. 2002, p.10

CHICKEN-FIBRE WAFERS: A FEATHER-

BRAINED IDEA?Pierce J

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed

wafers using chicken feather fibres and soybean resin.

These wafers are claimed to have outperformed silicon

microchips.

DELAWARE,UNIVERSITYUSA

Accession no.862255

Item 8Journal of Thermoplastic Composite Materials

15, No.4, July 2002, p.337-53

COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE EFFECTS OFDIFFERENT FIBERS ON THE PROCESSINGAND PROPERTIES OF POLYPROPYLENEMATRIX COMPOSITESLopez-Manchado M A; Biagiotti J; Kenny J M

Madrid,Instituto de Ciencia y Tec.de Polim.;

Perugia,Universita

The effects of different fibres on the processing and

physical and mechanical properties of PP composites

based thereon were investigated. Fibres employed were

aramid fibres, PETP fibres, glass fibres and sisal and

properties evaluated included flow, tensile properties,

flexural properties, impact resistance and morphological

properties. The morphology of the composites wasanalysed by scanning electron microscopy and the

relationship between the morphology and properties of

the composites examined. 25 refs.

EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;

SPAIN; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.860578


15, No.4, July 2002, p.281-300

DEVELOPMENT OF A FLAX/POLYPROPYLENECOMPOSITE WITH OPTIMAL MECHANICALCHARACTERISTICS BY FIBER AND MATRIXMODIFICATIONVan de Velde K; Kiekens P

Ghent,University

Long flax fibres were treated with propyltrimethoxysilane,

phenyl isocyanate and maleic acid anhydride modified

PP and the sorption characteristics, tensile properties and

roughness of the treated fibres determined. Composites

were produced from treated fibres expected to exhibit

good properties and subjected to flexural, interlaminar

shear strength and sorption tests. Composites containing

fibres treated with the maleic acid anhydride modified

PP or with a maleic acid anhydride modified PP matrix

were found to have the best properties. 11 refs.

BELGIUM; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.860575



Item 10Polymer Composites

23, No.3, June 2002, p.383-94

SURFACE MODIFICATION OF FIQUE FIBRES.EFFECTS ON THEIR PHYSICO-MECHANICALPROPERTIESGanan P; Mondragon I

Medellin,Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana; Pais

Vasco,Universidad

A study is performed to assess the possibilities of fique

fibres (a Colombian native fibre) as a reinforcement for

polymeric matrices. The fique fibres are treated using

different chemical surface treatments. The effects

produced on the properties of fique fibres are investigated.

The treatments applied are mercerisation, and/or chemical

agents such as maleic anhydride and acrylic acid, and also

silanisation. In order to analyse the chemical in the treated

fibres, FTIR spectroscopy is used along with two related

techniques: attenuated total reflection and coupled

microscopy. Additionally, physical and mechanical

properties of untreated and treated fique fibres are studied.

A wettability study using contact angle measurements is

also performed for surface free energy determination. The

thermal stability of the fibres is investigated by

thermogravimetric analysis. 33 refs.

BRAZIL; COLOMBIA

Accession no.860533


23, No.3, June 2002, p.319-28

STRUCTURAL PROPERTIES ANDMECHANICAL BEHAVIOUR OF INJECTIONMOULDED COMPOSITES OFPOLYPROPYLENE AND SISAL FIBREXie X L; Li R K Y; Tjong S C; Mai Y W

Hong Kong,City University; Huazhong,University of

Science & Technology; Sydney,University

Composites based on isotactic PP and sisal fibre (SF) are

prepared by melt mixing and injection moulding. The melt

mixing characteristics, thermal properties, morphology,

crystalline structure and mechanical behaviour of the PP/

SF composites are systematically investigated. The results

show that the PP/SF composites can be melt mixed and

injection moulded under similar conditions as the PP

homopolymer. For the composites with low sisal fibre

content, the fibres act as sites for the nucleation of PP

spherulites, and accelerate the crystallisation rate and

enhance the degree of crystallinity of PP. On the other

hand, when the sisal fibre content is high, the fibres hinder

the molecular chain motion of PP, and retard the

crystallization. The inclusion of sisal fibre induces the

formation of B-form PP crystals in the PP/SF composites

and produces little change in the inter-planar spacing

corresponding to the various diffraction peaks of PP. The

apparent crystal size as indicated by the several diffraction

peaks such as L(, L((.,()_ and L(300)B of the (v and B-

form in crystals tend to increase in the PP/SF composites

considerably. These results lead to the increase in the

melting temperature of PP. Moreover, the stiffness of the

PP/SF composites is improved by the addition of sisal

fibres but their tensile strength decreases because of the

poor interfacial bonding. The PP/SF composites are

toughened by the sisal fibres due to the formation of B-

form PP crystals and the pull-out of sisal fibres from the

PP matrix, both factors retard crack-growth.

AUSTRALIA; CHINA; HONG KONG

Accession no.860527

Item 12Plastics in Building Construction

25, No.10, 2001, p.8-9

EXTRUSION SYSTEM FOR POLYMER/WOOD-FIBRE COMPOSITESMurdock D

Davis-Standard Corp.

The development of the Davis-Standard’s Woodtruder

extrusion system for the processing of wood fibre and

polymers is described, as are the techniques that are

critical for good efficiency with this fully intermeshing

counter-rotating, twin-screw extruder system that is

suitable for wood fibre with an initial moisture content

of less than 8%. Aspects covered include extruder design

and processing.

USA

Accession no.860469

Item 13Journal of Adhesion Science and Technology

16, No.8, 2002, p.999-1015

ENGINEERED NATURAL FIBER REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITES: INFLUENCEOF SURFACE MODIFICATIONS AND NOVELPOWDER IMPREGNATION PROCESSINGMohanty A K; Drzal L T; Misra M

Michigan,State University

Biocomposites were produced from chopped natural

fibres of Kenaf and henequen and PP powder by powder

impregnation processing. The fibres were surface

modified by alkali treatment or treatment with maleated

polyolefins and the effect of these surface treatments on

the physicomechanical properties, such as tensile and

impact properties, of the composites investigated. It was

found that engineered natural fibres could be produced

from a blend of these surface treated fibres, which

provided composites with superior physicomechanical

properties. 15 refs.

USA

Accession no.860336


16, No.6, 2002, p.703-27



PLASMA TREATMENT OF SISAL FIBRES ANDITS EFFECTS ON TENSILE STRENGTH ANDINTERFACIAL BONDINGXiaowen Yuan; Jayaraman K; Bhattacharyya D

Auckland,University

Argon and air plasma treatments were used to modify the

surface of sisal fibres. The Taguchi method of experimental

design with three factors and three levels was used to optimise

the treatment parameters in relation to fibre strength. The

effects of plasma treatment on interfacial bonding between

sisal fibres and PP were evaluated by means of a single fibre

pull-out test. The optimum treatment parameters were found

to be the shortest plasma treatment time, medium power level

and medium chamber pressure. Under optimal treatment,

the interfacial shear strength of air plasma-treated fibres was

higher than that of the argon plasma-treated fibres. SEM

analyses showed that the overall roughness of the plasma-

treated fibre surface increased with treatment time. The

argon-plasma treated fibre surface revealed obvious

corrugations, whereas cracking was apparent on the air

plasma-treated fibre surface. 20 refs. (3rd International

Symposium on Polymer Surface Modification, Newark, New

Jersey, USA, May 2001)

NEW ZEALAND

Accession no.860034

Item 15GPEC 2002: Plastics Impact on the Environment.

Proceedings of a conference held Detroit, MI, 13th-

14th Feb. 2002.

Brookfield, CT, SPE, Paper 46, p.383-398, CD-ROM, 012

NATURAL/BIO-FIBER REINFORCEDPOLYOLEFIN COMPOSITES: BIO-BASEDOPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES IN THEMATERIALS WORLDMisra M; Mohanty A K; Drzal L T


(SPE,Environmental Div.)

The development and commercialisation of new bio-based

products is discussed with particular reference to natural

fibre reinforced thermoplastic polyolefin biocomposites.

These materials are claimed to have the largest application

potential. The choice of the coupling agent is reported to

govern the overall physico-mechanical properties of the

biocomposite, and attention is given to the use of maleated

polyolefins as effective coupling agents in the

compatibilisation of natural fibre-polyolefin composite

systems. Choice of fibre and matrix materials are examined,

and details are given of material properties, commercial

process and applications to review current developments.

Also discussed is a new environmentally benign powder

impregnation processing technique, which is said to show

significant advantages for the manufacture of commercially

attractive high volume biocomposites. 12 refs.

USA

Accession no.859627

Item 16GPEC 2002: Plastics Impact on the Environment.

Proceedings of a conference held Detroit, MI, 13th-

14th Feb. 2002.

Brookfield, CT, SPE, Paper 25, p.217-228, CD-ROM,

012

USE OF FUNCTIONALIZED POLYOLEFINS INENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY PLASTICCOMPOSITESSigworth W; Roberts D H

Crompton Corp.

(SPE,Environmental Div.)

The use is described of maleic anhydride grafted HDPE

and PP in plastic composites containing natural products

such as wood flour. Data are presented to show the effects

that the functionalised additives have on processing and

mechanical properties. Polybond maleic anhydride

functionalised polyolefins are evaluated as chemical

coupling agents. These chemical coupling agents have

functions in respect of wetting the wood fibre and

dispersing it in the polyolefin resin. They also bond the

wood to the plastic matrix, providing stronger interfacial

adhesion. The effect of these functionalised products on

40% wood-filled HDPE and PP is found to increase the

breaking strengths, impact properties and heat deflection

temperatures, in addition to reducing water absorption.

USA

Accession no.859610


85, No.10, 6th Sept.2002, p.2145-54

FUNCTIONALIZATION OF SISAL FIBERS ANDHIGH-DENSITY POLYETHYLENE BY COLDPLASMA TREATMENTMartin A R; Manolache S; Denes F S; Mattoso L H C

Sao Carlos,Universidade Federal; Wisconsin,University

Chopped sisal fibres and HDPE were surface

functionalised using dichlorosilane under radio frequency

plasma conditions and characterised by ESCA and

fluorescence labelling techniques. A three-factor fractional

experimental design was used to evaluate the effect of

radio frequency power, pressure, and reaction time on the

atomic composition of plasma-treated samples. 39 refs.

BRAZIL; USA

Accession no.859439

Item 18Additives for Polymers

May 2002, p.3

COUPLING AGENTS FROM CROMPTON OPENNEW MARKETS FOR WOOD-FILLEDCOMPOUNDS

In the USA, Crompton Corp. has created new “Polybond”

coupling agents for improving the processing and

performance of both PE and PP compounds filled with



wood and other natural fibres. Brief details of the new

additive are given in this concise article.

CROMPTON CORP.USA

Accession no.858945


85, No.7, 15th Aug.2002, p.1465-8

SOLID-STATE NUCLEAR MAGNETICRESONANCE STUDY OF POLYURETHANE/NATURAL FIBRES COMPOSITESTavares M I B; Mothe c G; Araujo C R

Rio de Janeiro,Cidade Universitaria

Fibre-reinforced plastics (FRP) are prepared with sisal

and sugarcane waste material. Composites of these fibres

with PUs are obtained by processing these materials in a

Haake plastograph, and their homogeneity is characterised

by nuclear magnetic resonance measurements. The results

are discussed in terms of composites interaction,

homogeneity and compatibility. 10 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.858753

Item 20Composites Part A: Applied Science and

Manufacturing

33A, No.6, 2002, p.763-77

WATER SORPTION IN OIL PALM FIBERREINFORCED PHENOL FORMALDEHYDECOMPOSITESSreekala M S; Kumaran M G; Thomas S

Rubber Research Institute of India; Mahatma

Gandhi,University

Kinetics of sorption of water in oil palm fibre-reinforced

phenol-formaldehyde(PF) composites and oil palm/glass

hybrid fibre-reinforced PF composites were investigated.

The effects of fibre loading, relative volume fractions of

fibres in hybrid composites and fibre surface

modifications on the kinetic and thermodynamic

parameters of water sorption by the composites were also

studied. Water sorption at four different temps. was

analysed and compared. The composite with 10 wt % fibre

loading exhibited maximum water uptake. Hybridisation

of the oil palm fibre with glass markedly decreased the

water sorption by the composite. The concentration

dependence of the diffusion constant was analysed and

discussed. 15 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.858459

Item 21Advanced Composites Letters

10, No.6, 2001, p.299-303

DETERMINATION OF INTERFACIAL SHEAR

STRENGTH AND CRITICAL FIBRE LENGTH ININJECTION MOULDED FLAX FIBREREINFORCED POLYPROPYLENEAurich T; Mennig G

Chemnitz,Technical University

Results of studies of the above are presented and

discussed, particular attention being paid to influence of

fibre content on modulus in tension, influence of fibre

content on TS, effect of maleic anhydride-PP as coupling

agent on TS for various fibre contents, frequency

distribution of flax fibre length in an injection moulded

part, and interfacial shear strength and critical fibre length

calculated by an iterative procedure. 11 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.858411


10, No.6, 2001, p.293-7

INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECT OFPROCESSING CONDITIONS ON THEINTERFACE OF FLAX/POLYPROPYLENECOMPOSITESZafeiropoulos N E; Baillie C A; Matthews F L

London,Imperial College of Science,Technol.& Med.

The effect of cooling rates upon the interface in flax fibre/

isotactic PP composites was investigated by means offragmentation tests. It was found that slower cooling led

to a stronger interface for two different grades of flax

fibres, i.e. dew retted and green flax. The interfacial stress

transfer ability in these composites could thus be improved

simply by controlling the processing conditions, thus

avoiding the application of surface treatments that are

environmentally hazardous. 12 refs.

EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.858410


85, No.1, 5th July 2002, p.169-76

INTERFACE MODIFICATION ON THEPROPERTIES OF SISAL FIBER-REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESFung K L; Li R K Y; Tjong S C

Hong Kong,University

Melt blend with subsequent injection moulding were used

to prepare short sisal fibre (SF)-reinforced polypropylene

(PP). In order to increase the interfacial bond strength

between the SSF and PP, the PP matrix was maleated by

blending PP and maleic anhydride-grafted PP (MAPP) in

9:1 wt. ratio. The SF/MAPP composites had lower melt

viscosities (as indicated by torque rheometer

measurements) than the SF/PP composites at the

respective sisal fibre contents. The tensile strength was



increased by PP maleation because of the increased SF/

matrix interfacial bonding when MAPP was used, but the

impact strength was decreased. The increased SF/matrix

interfacial bond strength prevented fibre/matrix

debonding and fibre pullout. 11 refs.

CHINA

Accession no.857107


85, No.1, 5th July 2002, p.129-38

BIODEGRADABLE POLYESTER COMPOSITESREINFORCED WITH SHORT ABACA FIBERMitsuhiro Shibata; Kei-ichiro Takachiyo; Koichi

Ozawa; Ryutoku Yosomiya; Hiroyuku Takeishi

Chiba,Institute of Technology

The mechanical properties of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-

hydroxyvalerate)(PHVB) composites reinforced with

short abaca fibres, obtained by melt mixing followed by

injection moulding, were compared with those of PHVB

reinforced with glass fibre (GF). The effects of fibre

length, fibre content, and surface treatment of the natural

abaca fibre on its mechanical properties were assessed.

Tensile tests showed that the tensile strength of the fibres

reached a maximum at a fibre length of about 5 mm.

Surface treatment of abaca fibres with butyric anhydride

and pyridine over 5 hours improved the flexural properties

of the PHVP/composite because of the increase in

interfacial adhesion between the matrix polyester and the

surface-esterified fibre, as was obvious from the SEM

micrographs. The flexural and tensile properties of the

PHVP/treated abaca composite were comparable with

those of PHVP/GF composite. 19 refs.

JAPAN

Accession no.857103


84, No.13, 24th June 2002, p.2358-65

MORPHOLOGY AND MECHANICALPROPERTIES OF UNIDIRECTIONAL SISAL-EPOXY COMPOSITESOksman K; Wallstrom L; Berglund L A; Toledo Filho R D

SICOMP AB; Lulea,University of Technology; Rio de

Janeiro,Universidade Federal

The longitudinal stiffness and strength were studied, together

with the morphology, in unidirectional sisal-epoxy

composites manufactured by resin transfer moulding.

Horseshoe-shaped sisal fibre bundles (technical fibres) were

non-uniformly distributed in the matrix. In contrast to many

wood composites, the lumen was not filled by polymer

matrix. Technical sisal fibres showed a higher effective

modulus when included in the composite, compared with a

technical fibre test (40 GPa compared with 24 GPa). In

contrast, the effective technical fibre strength in the

composites was estimated to be about 400 MPa compared

with a measured technical fibre tensile strength of 550 MPa.

Reasons for the differences were discussed. 19 refs.

BRAZIL; EUROPEAN UNION; SCANDINAVIA; SWEDEN;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.857043

Item 26Polymer Preprints. Volume 43, Number 1. Spring 2002.

Papers presented at the ACS meeting held Orlando, Fl.,

7th-11th April 2002.

Washington D.C., ACS, Div.of Polymer Chemistry,

2002, p.482-3, 28 cm, 012

INFLUENCE OF SURFACE MODIFICATIONAND COMPATIBILIZATION ON THEPERFORMANCE OF NATURAL FIBERREINFORCED BIODEGRADABLETHERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITEHokens D; Mohanty A K; Misra M; Drzal L T


(ACS,Div.of Polymer Chemistry)

The advantages of using natural fibres rather than glass

fibres to fill and reinforce thermoplastics were discussed.

The effect of alkali treatment and the use of maleated PS

as a compatibiliser to improve the properties of

composites fabricated from hemp fibre and the

biodegradable thermoplastic Bionolle (polybutylene

succinate or butylene succinate-butylene adipate

copolymer) were studied. The tensile strength and tensile

modulus of the virgin Bionolle polymer were enhanced

by about 135% and 700% respectively when it was

reinforced with 35 wt% of alkali-treated hemp fibre in

the presence of the maleated PS compatibiliser. 2 refs.

USA

Accession no.857010

Item 27Journal of Polymer Science: Polymer Physics Edition

40, No.12, 15th June 2002, p.1214-22

STRUCTURAL AND MECHANICALBEHAVIOUR OF POLYPROPYLENE/MALEATED STYRENE-ETHYLENE-CO-BUTYLENE-STYRENE/SISAL FIBERCOMPOSITES PREPARED BY INJECTIONMOLDINGXie X L; Fung K L; Li R K Y; Tjong S C; Mai Y-W

Hong Kong,City University; Huazhong,University of

Science & Technology; Sydney,University

Details are given of the use of maleic anhydride grafted

styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene copolymer as

compatibiliser to improve the interfacial bonding between

PP and sisal fibre. The composites were prepared by melt

compounding followed by injection moulding. The melt-

compounding torque behaviour, thermal properties,

morphology, crystal structure and mechanical behaviour

of the composites were systematically investigated. 27 refs.

AUSTRALIA; CHINA

Accession no.856773



Item 28Composites Science & Technology

62, Nos.7-8, 2002, p.911-7

DYNAMIC MECHANICAL AND THERMALANALYSIS OF VINYL ESTER-RESIN-MATRIXCOMPOSITES REINFORCED WITHUNTREATED AND ALKALI-TREATED JUTEFIBRESRay D; Sarkar B K; Das S; Rana A K

Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science;

Indian Jute Industries’ Research Assn.

Vinyl ester resin-matrix composites reinforced with

untreated and 5% NaOH treated jute fibres for 4 and 8 h

with different fibre loading are subjected to dynamic

mechanical and thermal analysis to determine their

dynamic properties as a function of temperature. For all

the composites, the storage modulus, E’, decreases with

increase in temperature, with a significant fall in the

temperature range 110-170 deg. C. For the treated

composites, the rate of fall, dE’/dT, has an inverse

relationship with the defect concentrations in the

composites. The lowest defect concentrations in the 4 h

treated composites correspond to the highest rate of fall.

The glass transition temperature, Tg, of the unreinforced

resin, corresponding to the loss modulus peak, is 101.2

deg.C, whereas that of the composites increases by nearly

28 deg.C on account of the restricted mobility of the resin

molecules in the presence of the fibres. In the case of the

treated composites, the Tg value shows a decreasing trend

(128 to 25 deg.C). Unlike the plain resin, a tiny hump is

observed in the loss modulus, E2, curves of all the

composites around 166 deg.C, which become broader and

more prominent with increase in the jute fibre content.

The very high tan delta value of the resin decreases in the

composites, indicating that the addition of the fibres

lowers the damping capacity of the composites. 17 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.856483

Item 29Plastics Technology

48, No.4, April 2002, p.20

IMPROVED WOOD FIBERS

We are informed in this little item that Rayonier of the

USA has developed a high-purity cellulose fibre derived

from local hard and soft woods, with a high content of

pure alpha-cellulose. Brief details are given of the new

material, which is known as “TerraCel”.

RAYONIEREUROPE-GENERAL; USA

Accession no.855910

Item 30Fibres & Textiles in Eastern Europe

10, No.1, 2002, p.22-6

BIODEGRADATION OF LIGNIN BASED RESINS

AND FIBROUS LIGNIN COMPOSITESWrzesniewska-Tosik K; Struszczyk H; Ratajska M;

Tomaszewski W

Lodz,Institute of Chemical Fibres

The results of an investigation are presented which

consider the biodegradation of lignin-based resins and

fibrous composites obtained upon the application of such

resins. Selected samples destined for tests are exposed to

biological decomposition in a water medium, which

contains bacterial strains originating from active waste-

water sediments taken from a sewage treatment plant of

the cellulose industry. The process is conducted in

conditions of so-called carbon deficiency, whereas the

analysed samples are the source of carbon. 26 refs.

EASTERN EUROPE; POLAND

Accession no.855152

Item 31Plast’ 21

No.107, Dec.2001, p.63

Spanish

INJECTION MOULDING OF NATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCED PLASTICS

The advantages of natural fibres such as hemp and flax

as replacements for glass fibres in plastics composites

are discussed, and applications of such composites are

reviewed with particular reference to components for

automotive and other transport applications.

Developments by Demag Ergotech in processes and

machinery for the injection moulding of natural fibre-

reinforced plastics are examined.

DEMAG ERGOTECH; FRAUNHOFER-INSTITUT

FUER CHEMISCHE TECHNOLOGIEEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.854894


92, No.5, May 2002, p.35-7

POLYPROPYLENE-CELLULOSE COMPOUNDSWeigel P; Ganster J; Fink H-P; Gassan J; Uihlein K

Fraunhofer-Institute for Applied Polymer Research;

Faurecia-SAI Automotive SAL GmbH

A propylene block copolymer was compounded with high

strength renewable cellulose fibres (Cordenka 700) by

pultrusion and the density and mechanical properties of

the resulting composites determined. The performance

of these cellulose fibre reinforced PP composites was

compared with that of PP composites containing other

types of fibres, particularly glass fibres. It was found that,

under certain conditions, the high strength cellulose fibres

were promising as replacements for glass fibres.

(Kunststoffe, 92, No.5, 2002, p.95-7)


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.854550




92, No.5, May 2002, p.34-5

POLYPROPYLENE-FLAX COMPOUNDS ...INCLUDING FLAME RETARDANTSSchwartz U; Pflug G; Reinemann S

Ostthueringische Materialpruefgesellschaft mbH; TITK e.V

The suitability of expandable graphite as a flame retardant

in PP/flax composites is examined and the mechanical

properties of PP/flax composites containing expandable

graphite or ammonium polyphosphate, as flame

retardants, compared. A potential application of these

composites is considered to be vehicle trim and building

applications. (Kunststoffe, 92, No.5, 2002, p.93-4)


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.854549

Item 34Polymer Engineering and Science

42, No.4, April 2002, p.790-7

OXYGEN PLASMA TREATMENT OF SISALFIBERS AND POLYPROPYLENE: EFFECTS ONMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF COMPOSITESCouto E; Tan I H; Demarquette N; Caraschi J C; Leao

A

Sao Paulo,Escola Politecnico; Paulista,Universidade

Estadual

Oxygen plasma treatment of polypropylene is an efficient

method for functionalising surface polar groups and

improving adhesion to cellulose-based materials, provided

that care is taken in preventing degradation and chain

scission. To this end, PP powder and sisal fibres were

oxygen plasma-treated in selected plasma conditions in

order to functionalise oxygen polar groups in the PP and

to induce chain scission and low-molecular weight

fragments in both PP and sisal fibres. These treatments

were tested for their effectiveness in improving

mechanical properties of sisal/PP composites. 17 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.854514


42, No.4, April 2002, p.733-42

THERMAL AND DYNAMIC MECHANICALCHARACTERIZATION OF POLYPROPYLENE-WOODFLOUR COMPOSITESNunez A J; Kenny J M; Reboredo M M; Aranguren M

I; Marcovich N E

Mar del Plata,Universidad Nacional

The performance of wood particle/PP composites with

modified capabilities was compared. Wood flour

modification was performed by esterification with maleic

anhydride, and a non-commercial maleic anhydride-

polypropylene copolymer was selected as compatibilising

agent. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the onset

of thermal degradation of treated wood flour occurs at a

lower temperature than that of the untreated one, and that

the same behaviour was found in the corresponding

composites. Differential scanning calorimetry revealed

that both wood flours acted as nucleating agents for PP,

while only the treated version induced PP crystallisation

in beta-phase in the composites. It was shown by X-ray

diffractometry that this crystallisation was a shear-induced

phenomenon favoured by the chemical modification of

the wood flour surface. Dynamic mechanical analysis

showed that the properties of the composite decreased at

concentrations higher than 40 wt% of wood flour and that

the overall performance of maleic anhydride-treated wood

flour composites was shown to be lower than that of the

composites to which a compatibiliser was added. 30 refs.

ARGENTINA

Accession no.854508

Item 36Materials for Lean Weight Vehicles IV. Proceedings of

a conference held Gaydon, UK, 30th.-31st. Oct. 2001.

London, Institute of Materials, 2001, Paper 2, pp.10,

012

TOWARD A NEW PARADIGM IN CAR DESIGNDe Kanter J L C G; Viot A; Kandachar P; Kaveline K

Delft,University of Technology

(Institute of Materials)

The University of Delft’s new concept car, the DutchEVO

uses an integrated approach to resolve the many inherent

conflicts in car design, especially relating to safety and

weight reduction, fuel efficiency and use of sustainable

materials. In particular, the use is discussed of natural

fibre composites based on low cost thermoplastics.

Current applications are indicated, and the future for

natural fibre composites is considered.

EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;

NETHERLANDS; UK; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.853960


23, No.2, April 2002, p.182-92

INTERFACIAL INTERACTION IN SISAL/EPOXY COMPOSITES AND ITS INFLUENCE ONIMPACT PERFORMANCERong M Z; Zhang M Q; Liu Y; Yan H M; Yang G C;

Zeng H M

Zhongshan,University

Sisal fibre was surface treated using various methods,

including alkali treatment, acetylation, cyanoethylation,

treatment with a silane coupling agent, heat treatment or

a combination of these techniques, and then incorporated

into an epoxy matrix. Interfacial interactions in the

resulting composites were investigated using a surface

tensiometer and dynamic mechanical analysis and the



effect of these interactions on the impact properties of

both unidirectional and short fibre composites

investigated. Scanning electron microscopy was utilised

to analyse the fracture surfaces of the treated samples and

the failure mechanism identified. 28 refs.

CHINA

Accession no.853505


23, No.2, April 2002, p.164-70

INFLUENCE OF CHEMICAL MODIFICATIONON THE PERFORMANCE OF SISAL-POLYESTER BIOCOMPOSITESMishra S; Misra M; Tripathy S S; Nayak S K;

Mohanty A K

Ravenshaw College; Michigan,State University

Sisal-polyester composites were prepared by hand lay-up

and their mechanical properties, including tensile, flexural

and impact properties, investigated. The effects of fibre

loading and surface modification of the fibres on mechanical

properties were examined and fibre-matrix adhesion of the

surface modified fibre reinforced composites analysed by

scanning electron microscopy. Surface modification methods

employed included cyanoethylation, grafting with

acrylonitrile and methyl methacrylate, bleaching,

mercerisation and dewaxing. 21 refs.

INDIA; USA

Accession no.853503

Item 39International Polymer Science and Technology

29, No.4, 2002, p.T/82-6

PRODUCTION AND PROPERTIES OF WOODPOLYMER COMPOSITESSangalov Y A; Krasulina N A; Il’yasova A I

The modification of wood flour for use in wood polymer

composites is studied with the aim of developing a method

of modification envisaging the chemical change of the

surface and a complex improvement in the properties of

the wood materials. The reactive modifier selected was

oligoethoxysiloxane or ethylsilicate-40 (ES-40). The

polymer component consisted of polypropylene,

polyisobutylene, and butyl rubber. Transesterification of

the ES-40 by alcohols and modification of the wood flour

using the ES-40 were carried out by mixing the components

and subsequent heating in a stream of nitrogen or in air,

and the liquid products of transesterification of ES-40 were

characterised in terms of their solubility, the molecular mass

values, and IR spectra. Typical properties of the initial and

modified powders of wood flour were also determined, and

the properties of the resultant composite are described. 13

refs.(Article translated from Plasticheskie Massy, No.7,

2001, pp.39).

RUSSIA

Accession no.853076

Item 40Polymers & Polymer Composites

10, No.4, 2002, p.281-90

POLYPROPYLENE AND ALIPHATICPOLYESTER FLAX FIBRE COMPOSITESHodzic A; Shanks R A; Leorke M

RMIT University

Polypropylene and aliphatic polyester flax fibre

composites were prepared from hydrophobic and

hydrophilic PP with and without silane surface treated

flax fibres. Other comparable biodegradable composites

have been prepared from poly(lactic acid) and

poly(ethylene succinate). The polar polymers were found

to provide better wetting of the surface of the flax,

regardless of the surface treatment. DSC was used to study

the crystallisation and melting of the composites

compared with the pure polymers. Surface wetting of the

fibres and morphology of the composites was studied by

SEM and optical microscopy, and mechanical properties

were studied using dynamic mechanical analysis. It was

found that the relatively low density flax fibres provided

efficient reinforcement compared with that expected from

analogous glass fibre composites and the influence of the

transcrystalline interphase on the dynamic storage

modulus was found to be important. 17 refs.

AUSTRALIA

Accession no.853058


9, No.2, 2002, p.171-205

SHORT SISAL FIBRE REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITES: THE ROLEOF THE INTERFACE MODIFICATION ONULTIMATE PROPERTIESJosph P V; Josph K; Thomas S

Kerala,St Berchmans’ College; Mahatma

Gandhi,University

Sisal fibres have been used for the reinforcement of PP

matrix. Compatibility between the hydrophilic cellulose

fibre and hydrophobic PP is achieved through treatment

of cellulose fibres with sodium hydroxide, isocyanates,

maleic anhydride modified PP (MAPP), benzyl chloride

and by using permanganate. Various fibre treatments

enhance the tensile properties of the composites

considerably, but to varying degrees. SEM

photomicrographs of fracture surfaces of the treated

composites clearly indicate the extent of fibre-matrix

interface adhesion, fibre pullout and fibre surface

topography. Surface fibrillation is found to occur during

alkali treatment, which improves interfacial adhesion

between the fibre and PP matrix. The grafting of the fibres

by MAPP enhances the tensile strength of the resulting

composite. It is found that the urethane derivative of

polypropylene glycol and cardanol treatments reduces the

hydrophilic nature of sisal fibre and thereby enhances the

tensile properties of the sisal-PP composites, as evident



from the SEM photomicrographs of the fracture surface.

The IR spectrum of the urethane derivative of

polypropylene glycol gives evidence for the existence of

a urethane linkage. Benzoylation of the fibre improves

the adhesion of the fibre to the PP matrix. The benzoylated

fibre is analysed by IR spectroscopy. Experimental results

indicate better compatibility between benzoylated fibre

and PP. The observed enhancement in tensile properties

of permanganate-treated composites at a low

concentration is due to the permanganate-induced grafting

of PP on to sisal fibres. Among the various treatments,

MAPP treatment gives superior mechanical properties.

Experimental results of the mechanical properties of the

composite are compared with theoretical predictions. 55

refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.852988

Item 42PVC 2002: Towards a Sustainable Future. Proceedings

of a conference held Brighton, 23rd-25th April 2002.

London, IOM Communications Ltd., 2002. Paper 13,

p.151-6, 21cm, 012

EXTRUSION OF WOOD-PVC COMPOSITEMATERIALSSehnal E

Cincinnati Extrusion


The extrusion of woodlike, wood-filled and wood profiles

based upon wood fibres and PVC is discussed and the

extruders employed are described. The characteristics and

benefits of the products are also considered.

AUSTRIA; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;

UK; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.852749


84, No.12, 20th June 2002, p.2222-34

CHEMICAL MODIFICATION OF HEMP, SISAL,JUTE, AND KAPOK FIBRES BYALKALIZATIONMwaikambo L Y; Ansell M P

Bath,University

Hemp, sisal, jute and kapok fibres were soaked in sodium

hydroxide solutions of various concentrations, and the

alkalinisation studied using differential scanning

calorimetry, wide angle X-ray diffraction, Fourier

transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron

microscopy. Rapid degradation of the cellulose was

observed in solutions containing 0.8-8% sodium

hydroxide, further degradation at higher concentrations

being negligible. Solution concentrations of 0.8-30%

caused a marginal drop in the hemp crystallinity, and a

slight increase in the sisal, jute and kapok crystallinities.

All fibres were relatively smooth prior to treatment and

exhibited uneven surfaces after treatment. It was

concluded that alkalisation modified the fibres so as to

promote fibre-matrix adhesion, leading to enhanced

thermal and mechanical properties of polymer-fibre

composites. 24 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.852686

Item 44International Journal of Polymeric Materials

49, No.3, 2001, p.311-22

OIL PALM WOOD FLOUR FILLED NATURALRUBBER COMPOSITES: EFFECTS OF VARIOUSBONDING AGENTSIsmail H; Jaffri R M; Rozman H D


The effects of various bonding agents on curing

characteristics and mechanical properties of oil palm

wood flour (OPWF) filled NR composites are examined.

Compared to control compound, the presence of various

bonding agents increase the curing time, t90, maximum

torque (except phenol formaldehyde (PF) and resorcinol

formaldehyde (RF)/silica(Sil)), tensile strength, tensile

modulus (except PF and RF/Sil), and hardness (except

PF) but decrease the elongation at break and fatigue life

of the composites. Swelling test results indicate that the

presence of various bonding agents leads to stronger

adhesion at the OPWF-rubber interface. Overall results

indicate that RF/Sil/Hexa (Hexamethylene tetramine) is

the most suitable bonding system for OPWF filled NR


MALAYSIA

Accession no.851827

Item 45Materie Plastiche ed Elastomeri

66, No.6, June 2001, p.386-8

Italian

GROWING INTEREST IN FIBRE-REINFORCEDPLASTICSCalato F

A review is presented of German developments in

composites technology. Some innovative processing

methods are examined, and the use by Audi of natural

fibre-reinforced PU composites (Bayer’s Baypreg F) in

automotive components is described. Consideration is also

given to trends in the European composites market.

AVK-TV; DARMSTADT,TECHNICAL

UNIVERSITY; BRAUNSCHWEIG,DLR-INSTITUT

FUER STRUKTURMECHANIK; BAYER AG;

HENNECKE; AUDI AGEUROPE-GENERAL; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN


Accession no.851797



Item 46Journal of Materials Science

37, No.8, 15th April 2002, p.1683-92

TENSILE AND COMPRESSIVE PROPERTIES OFFLAX FIBRES FOR NATURAL FIBREREINFORCED COMPOSITESBos H L; van den Oever M J A; Peters O C J J

ATO

Mechanical properties of flax fibres were determined in

tension and compression. The effect of clamping length

on tensile properties of fibre bundles was examined. The

tensile strength of elementary flax fibres was found to

range between 1500 MPa and 1800 MPa depending on

the isolation procedure. An examination of kink bands in

the fibres is discussed. 22 refs.


NETHERLANDS; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.851680

Item 47Journal of Reinforced Plastics & Composites

21, No.1, 2002, p.55-70

NOVEL ECO-FRIENDLY BIOCOMPOSITES:BIOFIBER REINFORCED BIODEGRADABLEPOLYESTER AMIDE COMPOSITES -FABRICATION AND PROPERTIESEVALUATIONMishra S; Tripathy S S; Misra M; Mohanty A K;

Nayak S K

Ravenshaw College; Michigan,State University;

India,Central Institute of Plastics Engng.& Tech.

The effect of various surface modifications of sisal fibres,

including mercerisation, cyanoethylation, acetylation,

bleaching and vinyl monomer (acrylonitrile) grafting, on

the mechanical performance (tensile strength and flexural

strength) of sisal fibre-reinforced polyester-amide (BAK

1095 from Bayer) biocomposite was studied. The

biodegradability of the composite was also evaluated. A

pineapple leaf fibre-BAK 1095 biocomposite was

fabricated for comparison. SEM studies provided clear

pictures of compatibility between various surface-

modified fibres and matrix in the composites. 18 refs.

BAYER AGINDIA; USA

Accession no.851495


15, No.3, May 2002, p.253-65

INFLUENCE OF THE FIBER CONTENT ANDTHE PROCESSING CONDITIONS ON THEFLEXURAL CREEP BEHAVIOR OF SISAL-PCL-STARCH COMPOSITESCyras V P; Martucci J F; Iannace S; Vazquez A

INTEMA; CNR

Flexural creep tests were performed on sisal fibre/

polycaprolactone/starch composites at different temps.

The creep compliance increased with the increase of temp.

and with the decrease of the fibre content. The

fragmentation of the polymer macromolecules and the

natural fibre fragmentation, however, influenced the creep

behaviour. The curves of compliance versus time were

shifted along the logarithmic time scale to develop a creep

master curve. Activation energy was determined from the

shift factors. A four-parameter model was applied in order

to quantify the viscoelastic behaviour of the composites.

17 refs.

ARGENTINA; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;

ITALY; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.851490


92, No.2, Feb. 2002, p.11-4

INNOVATIVE DIRECT PROCESSING OFNATURAL FIBRESRuch J; Fritz H-G; Buerkle E; Zimmet R

Stuttgart,Institut fur Kunststofftechnologie;

Stuttgart,University; Krauss-Maffei Kunststofftechnik

GmbH

The three phases involved in the development of a

single-stage compounding and moulding process for the

manufacture of natural fibre-reinforced PP composites

and shaping them into thin-walled interior door trim

parts in a single heating step are described. These phases

involved (i) the investigation of a multi-stage

compounding/compression method, (ii) combining

matrix functionalisation and natural fibre (flax)

incorporation into a single-step process and scale-up of

the process to a larger compounding unit and (iii)

collaboration with Krauss-Maffei to transfer the process

to an injection moulding compounder. (Kunststoffe, 92,

No.2, 2002, p.28-34)


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.850987

Item 50European Polymer Journal

38, No.1, Jan.2002, p.39-47

EFFECTS OF A SILANE COUPLING AGENT ONCURING CHARACTERISTICS ANDMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF BAMBOOFIBRE FILLED NATURAL RUBBERCOMPOSITESIsmail H; Shuhelmy S; Edyham M R

Malaysia,Science University

The scorch time and cure time of bamboo fibre-filled

natural rubber decreased with increased filler loading in

the presence of a silane coupling agent. The Mooney

viscosity increased with increasing filler content, but for

a given filler loading was reduced by the addition of the

coupling agent. The tensile strength and modulus, tear

strength, and hardness also increased on the addition of



coupling agent, attributed to enhanced adhesion between

the fibre and the matrix. 19 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.850821


84, No.11, 13th June 2002, p.1971-80

PREPARATION AND MECHANICALPROPERTIES OF COMPOSITE OF FIBROUSCELLULOSE AND MALEATEDPOLYETHYLENEFarao Zhang; Endo T; Wulin Qiu; Liqun Yang; Hirotsu

T

Japan,National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science

& Technology

The maleation of PE was studied, together with the

compounding of the resultant maleated PE(MPE) with

cellulose under melt mixing to prepare composites of

fibrous cellulose(FC) and MPE with FC contents of 5

to 60 wt %. The mechanical properties of the FC-MPE

composite were studied in relation to the content of

maleic anhydride groups in the MPE and the content

of FC in the composite. With an increase in the FC

content to 60 wt %, the TS of the FC-MPE composite

increased significantly and reached 125% of that of

pure PE. Furthermore, the larger Young’s modulus,

larger bending elastic modulus and smaller elongation

of the FC-MPE composite strongly indicated effective

transfer of the high TS and elasticity of FC to the MPE

matrix through the strong adhesion between FC and

MPE. 23 refs.

JAPAN

Accession no.850794

Item 52Composites International

No.50-51, March/June 2002, p.38-46

French; English

FIBRE-REINFORCED COMPOSITES, ASTRONG MARKET POTENTIALNair N G; Jayakumar Y J

India,Fibre Reinforced Plastics Institute

India’s fibre-reinforced composites industry is discussed,

which from a modest beginning in 1966, has today grown

to be a 212 million US dollar industry. An overview is

presented of the industry, with information relating to

glass fibre manufacturers and their capacities; growth

of fibre-reinforced composites; leading manufacturers

of polymeric matrix materials; manufacturing

technologies; and consumption trends in the aerospace,

manufacturing, land transport, marine, building and civil

engineering, chemical industry, electrical/electronic

telecommunications sectors.

INDIA

Accession no.850511


No.50-51, March/June 2002, p.30-2

French; English

NATURAL FIBRES: MATERIALS OF THEFUTURE?Harris T

Kline & Co.Inc.

The trend towards increased interest in natural fibre-

reinforced plastics is discussed, with reference to the

North American market, and in particular, the automotive

and construction industries. Current estimates are reported

to place the North American market for natural fibres in

plastic composites at over 150 million US dollars, and a

recent market study by Kline & Co. shows demand for

both wood and agricultural fibres is forecast to increase

over 20% per year in automotive applications and 50%

annually in selected building products.

NORTH AMERICA

Accession no.850509


15, No.2, March 2002, p.89-114

MELT RHEOLOGICAL BEHAVIOUR OF SHORTSISAL FIBRE REINFORCED POLYPROPYLENECOMPOSITESJoseph P V; Oommen Z; Joseph K; Thomas S

St.Berchman’s College; Kottayam,CMS College;

Mahatma Gandhi,University

The melt rheological properties of short sisal fibre-

reinforced PP composites were investigated by capillary

rheometry. The effects of shear rate, fibre loading, aspect

ratio and fibre treatment, such as alkali, TDI, maleic

anhydride and permanganate treatment, on the melt

viscosity of the composites were examined and a

comparison made between two techniques for making the

composites, namely melt mixing in a Haake Rheocord

and solution mixing in toluene and xylene. Optical

microscopy was employed to analyse fibre breakage

during extrusion and optical microscopy and scanning

electron microscopy were used to study extrudate

morphology. 38 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.850426

Item 55Plasticheskie Massy

No.7, 2001, p.39-41

Russian

PRODUCTION AND PROPERTIES OF WOOD-POLYMER COMPOSITESSangalov Yu A; Krasulina N A; Il’yasova A I

The preparation and physical properties such as moisture

absorption, acid resistance and heat resistance of

composites based on wood flour and polypropylene,



polyisobutylene and butyl rubber are described. 13 refs.

Articles from this journal can be requested for translation

by subscribers to the Rapra produced International

Polymer Science and Technology.

Accession no.849787

Item 56Machine Design

74, No.5, 7th March 2002, p.100-2

PLASTICS GO ON A NATURAL-FIBRE DIETBusch J

Composite Products Inc.

Natural fibre has emerged to compete with glass as the

reinforcement for a composite matrix. This new option

for long-fibre-thermoplastic reinforced composites offers

designers an attractive alternative when weighing cost

versus performance. Renewability and recyclability are

also important considerations. The main physical

limitation of bast fibres when compared to glass is heat

sensitivity. Processing temperatures must remain below

400F, limiting their use to reinforcement in PP, styrenics

and other low-melting-point resins. Generally, tensile and

flexural strength and impact resistance of natural fibre

composites are about half that of comparable glass-filled

materials. Design considerations and in-line compounding

and continuous moulding of natural fibre composites are

discussed.

USA

Accession no.849551

Item 57Plast’ 21

No.105, Oct.2001, p.164-5

Spanish

OPENING DOORS TO REINFORCED PLASTICS

Trends in the European market for reinforced plastics in

1999 are reviewed, and some developments in composites

processing and applications are examined. These include

processes for the production of glass and carbon fibre-

reinforced thermoplastic pipes and tubes and of large

composite structures, and the use of natural fibre-

reinforced PU composites in car construction.

DARMSTADT,TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY; AUDI

AG; DAIMLERCHRYSLER AGEUROPE-GENERAL; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN


Accession no.849038


62, No.3, 2002, p.339-53

MECHANICAL PERFORMANCE OF HYBRIDPHENOL-FORMALDEHYDE-BASEDCOMPOSITES REINFORCED WITH GLASSAND OIL PALM FIBRESSreekala M S; George J; Kumaran M G; Thomas S

Mahatma Gandhi,University; Eindhoven,University of

Technology; India,Rubber Research Institute

Oil palm fibre is hybridised with glass fibre in order to

achieve superior mechanical performance. The reinforcing

effect of glass in phenol formaldehyde resin is evaluated

at various glass fibre loadings. Tensile strength, tensile

modulus and flexural strength increase with in increase

in fibre loading. However, elongation at break and flexural

modulus are found to decrease beyond 40 wt.% fibre

loading. Impact strength and density of the composites

show similar trends. Compared to the gum sample,

hardness of the composites decreases by glass fibre

reinforcement. The hybrid effect of glass fibre and oil

palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) fibre on the tensile,

flexural and impact response of the composites is

investigated. Randomly oriented glass and OPEFB fibre

mats are arranged as interlayers to enhance the hybrid

effect. The overall performance of the composites is

improved by the glass fibre addition. Impact strength

shows great enhancement by the introduction of a slight

amount of glass fibre. Density of the hybrid composite

decreases as the volume fraction of the OPEFB fibre

increases. Hardness of the composites also shows a slight

decrease on an increased volume fraction of OPEFB fibre.

Scanning electron micrographs and optical photographs

of the fractured surfaces are taken to study the failure

mechanism and fibre/matrix interface adhesion. The

experimental results are compared with theoretical

predictions. The hybrid effect of glass and OPEFB fibre

is also calculated. 29 refs.

EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; INDIA;


Accession no.848943


48, No.3, March 2002, p.15

KENAF NATURAL FIBER STIFFENS LUMBERPROFILES

Kenaf natural plant fibre is used as a filling in the latest

version of “TexDek” PP synthetic wood decking planks

from Kenaf Industries of the USA, we are informed in

this concise article. Brief details of the reasons for the

selection of kenaf are given.

KENAF INDUSTRIES; DAVIS-STANDARD CORP.;

COLORTRONIC INC.USA

Accession no.848839


62, No.5, 2002, p.669-78

THERMOELASTIC ANISOTROPY OF ANATURAL FIBRECichocki F R; Thomason J L

Owens-Corning Science & Technology Center



The elastic and thermal expansion characteristics of a jute

fibre-reinforced epoxy composite system over a broad

temperature range were investigated by DMA and TMA

and the data obtained incorporated into several

micromechanical and semi-empirical models to predict

the thermoelastic properties of the jute fibres. It was found

that the longitudinal Young’s modulus of the fibres

exceeded the transverse fibre modulus by as much as an

order of magnitude in certain temperature regimes and

that the fibres exhibited negative thermal expansion

coefficients along their lengths and positive thermal

expansion coefficients in the transverse directions. 37 refs.

USA

Accession no.848803

Item 61Modern Plastics International

32, No.3, March 2002, p.40-1

EQUIPMENT OVERCOMES SOME KNOTTYPROBLEMSRose J

New feeders and blenders for processing wood flour for

the manufacture of wood composites are described.

Machinery from Colortronic Inc., K-Tron and Conair is

covered and includes a high-intensity spray tank for

cooling extruded wood composite parts and loss-in-weight

gravimetric blenders.

COLORTRONIC INC.; K-TRON; CONAIRUSA

Accession no.848709

Item 62Iranian Polymer Journal

10, No.6, Nov./Dec.2001, p.377-83

DYNAMIC PROPERTIES AND SWELLINGBEHAVIOUR OF BAMBOO FILLED NATURALRUBBER COMPOSITES: EFFECT OF BONDINGAGENTIsmail H; Edyham M R; Wirjosentono B

Sains Malaysia,University; Medan,Universitas

Sumatera Utara

The effect of filler loading and bonding agent on the

dynamic properties and swelling behaviour of bamboo

fibre-filled NR composites was studied. Bamboo fibre

was used as a filler and the loading range was 0 to 50 phr.

Dynamic properties were determined using a Monsanto

moving die rheometer at 150C. The results obtained

showed that the maximum elastic torque and minimum

elastic torque increased with increasing filler loading and

the addition of bonding agent. The viscous torque and

tan delta, however, decreased with addition of bonding

agent. For swelling behaviour, the water absorption of

the composites increased with increasing filler loading

but decreased with the addition of bonding agent. The

presence of bonding agent was found to improve the

adhesion between bamboo fibre and NR matrix, as

indicated by studies of the tensile fracture surfaces of the

composites using SEM. 15 refs.

INDONESIA; MALAYSIA

Accession no.848610


62, No.1, 2002, p.17-27

PERFORMANCE OF COMPOSITE CONESUNDER AXIAL COMPRESSION LOADINGKhalid A A; SAhiri B B; Khalid Y A

Malaysia,International Islamic University;

Putra,University

The load/displacement response and the energy absorption

of cotton- and glass fibre-reinforced epoxy composite

cones under axial compression was studied. Composite

cones with semi-vertex angles of 5, 10 and 20 degrees

and with fibre orientation angles of 90 or 80 degrees were

used. A finite element analysis for cones of the same

dimensions and materials was also carried out. The load

required and the specific energy absorption for glass/

epoxy cones were higher than those for cotton/epoxy

cones for all the cases studied. For both glass/epoxy and

cotton/epoxy cones, there was a slight increase in the load

capability and the energy absorption when the fibre

orientation angle was 80 degrees rather than 90 degrees.

When the cone angle was increased from 5 to 20 degrees,

all the composite cones tested could withstand higher

loads and the specific energy absorption was improved.

Reasons for the differences observed between the

experimental and finite element analysis results were

discussed. 18 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.848130

Item 64Polymer Preprints. Volume 42. Number 2. Fall 2001.

Proceedings of a conference held Chicago, Il., 7th-11th

April 2002.

Washington, D.C., ACS,Div.of Polymer Chemistry,

2001, p.73-4

NATURAL FIBRE REINFORCED THERMOSETCOMPOSITES: STUDIES ON FIBRE-MATRIXADHESION OF ALIGNED HENEQUEN FIBREEPOXY COMPOSITESBelcher L K; Drzal L T; Misra M; MohantyA K



Natural/bio-fibre composites (biocomposites) are mainly

price-driven commodity composites that have useable

structural properties at relatively low cost. Biocomposites,

derived from natural fibres and traditional thermoplastics

or thermosets, are not fully environmentally friendly as

the matrix resins are non-biogradable. However, these

types of biocomposites can maintain a balance between

economics and the environment allowing them to be



considered for applications in the automotive, building,

furniture and packaging industries. Natural fibre

composites are now emerging as a realistic alternative to

glass reinforced composites. Epoxy resins are known for

good tensile strength, high stiffness, excellent electrical

properties and good solvent resistance. The chief

drawbacks of epoxy resins for industrial use are their

brittleness and high cost. The ideal reinforcement material

would raise the tensile strength, increase toughness and

reduce cost of the composite, compared to epoxy resin

alone. The influence of two surface modifications (alkali

and silane coupling agent treatments) on aligned henequen

fibre-reinforced epoxy resin composites is examined.

Effect of fibre volume percent on biocomposite properties

is also evaluated.13 refs.

USA

Accession no.847977



April 2002.


2001, p.31-2

ENVIRONMENTALLY BENIGN POWDERIMPREGNATION PROCESSING AND ROLE OFNOVEL WATER BASED COUPLING AGENTS INNATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCEDTHERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITESDrzal L T; Mohanty A-K; Misra M



The usual extrusion and injection moulding processing

techniques most widely accepted for the production of

natural fibre thermoplastic composites require an

environmentally benign manufacturing alternative, as the

fibres are damaged during the usual accepted processing

techniques. Powder impregnation technology is an

environmentally benign manufacturing processing and is

gaining ground as a novel processing in composite field.

This process markedly reduces/eliminates volatile organic

compounds, and is thus an eco-friendly processing.

Besides the processing side, an attempt is made to replace

E-glass fibres with biofibres. However the selection of a

petro-based matrix, i.e. PP, under this research programme

is based on the fact that the development of commercial

product ecology-economy-technology should be

balanced. On a cost/performance basis, natural fibre-

reinforced PP composites are competing well with existing

E-glass fibre based composites in many applications. As

natural fibres are hydrophilic and PP is hydrophobic,

suitable surface treatment is needed to improve fibre-

matrix adhesion so as to obtain superior composites.

Water-based surface treatment is a realistic and cost-

effective way to achieve biocomposites of commercial

value. Through the suitable blending of surface treated

bast and leaf fibres, mechanical properties, such as

flexural and impact strength, of the resultant

biocomposites can be optimised. Development of a hybrid

water-based coupling agent to obtain best fibre-matrix

adhesion is in progress. Through biocomposite stampable

sheet forming (BCSS) processing, the aim is to produce

biocomposites from chopped ‘engineered natural fibres’

and thermoplastic powder polymer to fabricate future

generations of biocomposites with industrial value. 6 refs.

USA

Accession no.847955



April 2002.


2001, p.23-4

NATURAL FIBRE REINFORCEMENT OFPOLYMERIC COMPOSITES BY REACTION-INDUCED PHASE SEPARATIONPrieto A; Jana S C

Akron,University


In recent years, many natural fibre-filled polymer

composites have been reported. Thermosetting polymers

such as polyesters, epoxy, cyanate esters and

thermoplastic polymers such as PP, PE, PVC and PS have

been compounded with wood flour, wood pulp and

cellulose fibres to form composites. Despite of ongoing

research activities, many issues need to be resolved to

expand the use of natural fillers in polymer products for

diverse applications in automotive, aerospace and building

industries. One such issue is poor polymer-fibre bonding

in the final composites, mainly due to hydrophobic nature

of the polymers. Another issue is low decomposition

temperatures of natural fibres which seldom exceed 200-

220 deg.C. This precludes many engineering polymers,

whose processing temperatures often exceed 250 deg.C,

from consideration. New technologies, therefore, are

needed to reduce the gap between processing temperatures

of engineering polymers and decomposition temperatures

of natural fibres. A novel methodology is developed for

combining wood flour particles with a high temperature

thermoplastic polymer PPE with the aid of liquid epoxy.

The epoxy coating layers around wood flour particles

provide good adhesion and stronger interfaces with the

PPE phase. The composite material performs better than

many engineering polymer composites in terms of

mechanical properties. 11 refs.

USA

Accession no.847951

Item 67Emerging Technologies for the New Millennium. SPE

Topical Conference held Montreal, Canada, 20th-21st.

Sept. 2001.



Brookfield, Ct., 2001, 27 cms., paper 6, p.25-34. 012

NATURAL FIBRE COMPOSITES PREPARED BYPOLYMERIZATION COMPOUNDING PROCESSAit-Kadi A

Laval,University

(SPE; INDUSTRIAL MATERIALS INSTITUTE)

The relatively low degradation temperature of wood fibre

as a natural reinforcement for thermoplastic materials,

and its water sorption are two factors which limit the use

of wood fibres in the plastics industry. The first drawback

limits the number of thermoplastic materials to be used

as matrix to those having processing temperatures lower

than its degradation temperature (around 200 degrees C),

and the second problem has a negative effect on adhesion

with the generally hydrophobic polymers. Polymerisation

compounding was used as a means of partially

overcoming these limitations. It consists of using the

surface of the reinforcing material as a support for

polymerisation. To this end, HDPE composites with

unmodified and UHMWPE modified wood fibre

composites were prepared. Fibre modification was carried

out using a polymerisation compounding approach.

Composites containing around 34% of UHMWPE were

obtained by the polymerisation compounding approach.

Steady state rheological data indicate the effect of the

surface modification of the fibres on the viscoelastic

properties of obtained composites. 11 refs.

CANADA; USA

Accession no.847426


83, No.2, 10th Jan.2002, p.323-31

NOVEL APPLICATIONS OF LIGNIN INCOMPOSITE MATERIALSThielemans W; Can E; Morve S S; Wool R P

Delaware,University

Novel uses of lignin as a filler or comonomer in

thermosetting unsaturated polyesters and vinyl esters were

investigated. The easiest way to introduce a new

component to an existing resin is by adding the

unmodified component as a filler, however the high

styrene content in commercially available thermosets

showed incompatibility with lignin. For this reason,

soybean oil based resins were used, as this gave the ability

to vary the styrene content. The use of lignin increased

the glass transition temperature, and the modulus at 20

degree C decreased due to the plasticising effect of lignin.

The lignin was modified to improve its effect on the matrix

properties by adding double bond functionality, making

it possible to incorporate the lignin in the resin through

free radical polymerisation. Lignin was used to treat the

surfaces of natural hemp fibres, as lignin has a natural

affinity for cellulosic fibres. The lignin bonds to the

surface of natural fibres and the irregular shape of the

lignin particles provides mechanical interlocking with the

matrix in composites. This improves the fibre-matrix

interfacial strength, resulting in improved properties for

the composite. 26 refs.

USA

Accession no.846618


83, No.12, 2002, p.2634-43

THERMAL DEGRADATION OF FLAX: THEDETERMINATION OF KINETIC PARAMETERSWITH THERMOGRAVIMETRIC ANALYSISVan de Velde K; Kiekens P

Ghent,University

Thermogravimetric analysis was used to study the thermal

degradation of flax that had either been retted to varying

degrees or boiled. The most retted flax was also treated

chemically to obtain elementary fibres. Thermograms were

obtained for samples of each flax preparation and used to

calculate the kinetics of cellulose degradation. TGA could

not be used to quantify the different components of flax

because the degradation is spread over a wide temperature

range. However, the mass loss around peak 2 of the TGA

curves proved to be proportional to the amount of cellulose

present in the flax. Both the fully retted and boiled fibres

showed the best thermal stability. The boiled fibres are most

promising for use in composites, as ecological alternatives

to traditional reinforcing fibres, because they provide better

adhesion with a thermoplastic matrix. 9 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.846599


83, No.12, 2002, p.2505-21

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF WOODFLAKE-POLYETHYLENE COMPOSITES. II.INTERFACE MODIFICATIONBalasuriya P W; Ye L; Mai Y-W; Wu J

Sydney,University; Hong Kong,University of Science

& Technology

The modification of composites made from wood flakes

and HDPE was studied. An HDPE matrix was treated with

maleic anhydride (MA) in a twin-screw extruder then

compounded with wood flakes. The wood flakes were

treated with a silane coupling agent before the preparation

of the composite. DSC and FTIR showed that a

polyethylene-silane-grafted wood structure was formed.

The MA treated composites contained esters formed by

maleated HDPE reacting with wood. Both of these effects

compatibilise the wood flakes with the HDPE: the treated

composites have improved tensile strength, ductility and

Izod impact strength. It was reported that the best

properties were achieved with 1-2% MA by weight of

HDPE and 1-3% silane by weight of wood. 25 refs.

AUSTRALIA; HONG KONG

Accession no.846586



Item 71Polyurethanes Expo 2001. Creating Opportunity

through Innovation. Proceedings of a conference held

Columbus, Oh., 30th. Sept. - 3rd. Oct. 2001..

Arlington, Va., Alliance for the Polyurethanes Industry,

2001, Paper 29, p.239-244

NANO- AND MICRO-FILLERS FORPOLYURETHANE FOAMS: EFFECT ONDENSITY AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIESKrishnamurthi B; Bharadwaj-Somaskandan S; Shutov F

Tennessee,Technological University

(American Plastics Council; Alliance for the

Polyurethanes Industry)

A comparison analysis is undertaken to evaluate the effect

of different types of fillers on the density and mechanical

properties of two different types of commercial polyether-

based PU foams: low density flexible foams and high

density rigid foams. The two types of filler used are

microfillers based on wood flour and mineral type

nanofillers. The relationship is established between the filler

size and content, density and various mechanical properties.

In general, the relative mechanical property (property/

density ratio) is found to be higher for nano-size filler than

for micro-size filler. The comparison of the reinforcement

effects of micro- and nano-fillers is discussed. 8 refs.

USA

Accession no.846298


Manufacturing

33A, No.2, 2002, p.233-41

IMPACT FATIGUE BEHAVIOUR OFVINYLESTER RESIN MATRIX COMPOSITESREINFORCED WITH ALKALI TREATED JUTEFIBRESRay D; Sarkar B K; Bose N R


India,Central Glass & Ceramic Res.Inst.

An impact fatigue study was conducted on 35% jute/vinyl

ester resin composites containing both untreated and alkali-

treated fibres. Longer alkali treatment removed the

hemicellulose and improved the crystallinity and gave

better fibre dispersion. The flexural strength properties of

the composites made from treated fibre were superior. Jute

fibres treated with alkali for four hours gave the optimum

combination of improved interfacial bonding and fibre

strength properties. This was not, however, reflected in their

impact fatigue behaviour. The composites reinforced with

jute fibres treated with alkali for eight hours, on the other

hand, exhibited superior impact fatigue properties. The

fibres in the latter case suffered catastrophic fracture with

microfibrillar pull-out at some places and improved the

fatigue resistance properties of the composites as evident

from SEM micrographs. 24 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.846111

Item 73Polymer Testing

21, No.2, 2002, p.139-44

BAMBOO FIBRE FILLED NATURAL RUBBERCOMPOSITES: EFFECTS OF FILLER LOADINGAND BONDING AGENTIsmail H; Edyham M R; Wirjosentono B

Sains Malaysia,University; Indonesia,Universitas

Sumatera Utara

Bamboo fibre-reinforced NR(SMR L) composites were

prepared by incorporation of different loadings of bamboo

fibre (0-50 phr). Two series of composites were studied,

i.e. composites with and without the presence of a bonding

agent (phenol formaldehyde and hexamethylene

tetramine). The curing characteristics of the composites

were determined and the composites were vulcanised at

150C using a hot press. The properties of the composites,

such as TS, tensile modulus, tear strength, EB and

hardness, were studied. The adhesion between the bamboo

fibre and the NR was enhanced by the addition of bonding

agent as exhibited by the tensile fracture surfaces of the

composites using SEM. The presence of bonding agent

also gave shorter curing time and enhanced mechanical


INDONESIA; MALAYSIA

Accession no.845964

Item 74Plastics Additives & Compounding

4, No.2, Feb. 2002, p.8

COUPLING AGENT IMPROVES PROCESSINGAND PERFORMANCE OF WOOD-FILLEDCOMPOUNDSCrompton Corp.

This coupling agent, called Polybond, has been designed

for use in PE and PP wood/natural fibre filled compounds

and is available from Crompton Corp.

USA

Accession no.845230


23, No.1, Feb. 2002, p.49-60

PRODUCTION OF LEATHER-LIKECOMPOSITES USING CHEMICALLYMODIFIED SHORT LEATHER FIBRES. I.CHEMICAL MODIFICATION BY EMULSIONPOLYMERISATIONMadera-Santana T J; Aguilar-Vega M J; Marquez-

Lucero A; Vazquez-Moreno F

Yucatan,Universidad; Mexico,Centro de Investigacion

en Materiales Avanzados; Mexico,Universidad

Autonoma del Estado

Short chrome-tanned leather fibres were chemically

modified by in-situ emulsion polymerisation of methyl

methacrylate in order to increase their compatibility with



polymers for use in the footwear and furrier industries.

The effects of reaction variables, such as monomer

concentration, initiator and polymerisation temperature,

were investigated by IR spectroscopy, TGA, DSC, X-ray

diffraction and scanning electron microscopy and the

characteristics of the treated fibres compared with those

of untreated fibres. 12 refs.

MEXICO

Accession no.845120

Item 76Vinyltec 2001. Pushing Profitability. Conference

proceedings.

Iselin, N.J., 11th-12th Sept.2001, p.163-76

FUNDAMENTAL ASPECTS OF WOOD AS ACOMPONENT OF THERMOPLASTICCOMPOSITESStokke D D; Gardner D J

Iowa State University; Maine,University

(SPE,Vinyl Div.; SPE,Palisades Section)

Wood is a good cellular biopolymer. To effectively utilise

wood-based particles and fibres as fillers or

reinforcements in thermoplastic composites, a

fundamental understanding of the structural and chemical

characteristics of wood is required. An overview of these

topics is presented. Its basic characteristics of anatomy

and structure combine to impart variations in permeability,

bulk chemistry and surface chemistry. Characterisation

of particle size and shape, as well as surface tension

characteristics as indicators of wettability, become

important when trying to understand how these

biopolymeric materials behave when introduced into

synthetic polymer systems. Some recent work on the use

of contact angle analysis and inverse phase gas

chromatography as means to characterise these

interesting, variable and useful wood materials is

described. 14 refs.

USA

Accession no.845043


Manufacturing

33A, No.3, 2002, p.369-74

STUDY OF FIBRE AND INTERFACEPARAMETERS AFFECTING THE FATIGUEBEHAVIOUR OF NATURAL FIBRECOMPOSITESGassan J

Kassel,Universitat

The tension-tension fatigue behaviour of different

natural fibre reinforced plastics is investigated. The

composites used are made of flax and jute yarns and

wovens as reinforcements for epoxy resins, polyester

resins and PP. Fibre type, textile architecture, interphase

properties, fibre properties and content are found to

affect the fatigue behaviour strongly as illustrated with

damping versus applied maximum load curves. It is

found that natural fibre-reinforced plastics with higher

fibre strength and modulus, stronger fibre-matrix

adhesion or higher fibre fractions possess higher critical

loads for damage initiation and higher failure loads. In

addition, damage propagation rates are reduced.

Furthermore, unidirectional composites are less sensitive

to fatigue-induced damage than woven reinforced ones.

35 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.844842


20, No.16, 2001, p.1414-29

EFFECT OF VINYL AND SILICONEMONOMERS ON MECHANICAL ANDDEGRADATION PROPERTIES OFBIODEGRADABLE JUTE-BIOPOL COMPOSITEKhan M A; Kopp C; Hinrichsen G

Berlin,Technical University

Composites of jute fabrics (Hessian cloth) and Biopol

are prepared by compression moulding. Three types of

Biopol (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) such

as D300G, D400G and D600G, depending on the

concentration of 3-hydroxyvalerate (3HV) in 3-

hydroxybutyrate (3HB) are used for this purpose.

Mechanical properties such as tensile strength (TS),

bending strength (BS), elongation at break (Eb) and

impact strength (IS) of the jute-Biopol composites are

studied. It is found that the composite with D400G

produces higher mechanical properties compared with

the other two types of Biopol. To increase mechanical

properties as well as interfacial adhesion between fibre

and matrix, 2-ethyl hydroxyacrylate (EHA), vinyl

trimethoxysilane (VMS) and 3-methacryloxypropyl

trimethoxysilane (MPS) are taken as coupling agents.

Enhanced mechanical properties of the composites are

obtained by using these coupling agents. Biopol D400G

composites show the highest mechanical properties.

Among the coupling agents EHA depicts the highest

increase of mechanical properties such as tensile strength

(80%), bending strength (81%), elongation at break

(33%) and impact strength (130%) compared with pure

Biopol. SEM investigations demonstrate that the

coupling agents improve interfacial adhesion between

fibre and matrix. The surface of the silanised jute is

characterised by FTIR and finds the deposition of silane

on jute fibre is observed. Soil degradation testing proves

that the composite prepared with EHA treated jute

exhibits better degradation properties in comparison to

pure Biopol. 24 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.844774




14, No.5, Sept. 2001, p.421-32

INFLUENCE OF MOISTURE ABSORPTION ONMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF WOODFLOUR-POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESStark N

USDA Forest Products Laboratory

Composites were produced by filling a PP with 20 or 40

wt.% of wood flour and the influence of moisture

absorption on the mechanical properties of these

composites examined. Some specimens were placed in a

water bath at room temperature and their mechanical

properties tested periodically after removal from the water

bath. Mechanical properties investigated were flexural,

tensile and impact properties. It was found that more

moisture was absorbed by the wood flour at the higher

filler level, which, in turn, affected the mechanical

properties of the composites. 8 refs.

USA

Accession no.843943


61, No.16, 2001, p.2519-29

THERMAL AND DYNAMIC MECHANICALANALYSIS OF POLYSTYRENE COMPOSITESREINFORCED WITH SHORT SISAL FIBRESNair K C M; Thomas S; Groenineckx G

Mahatma Gandhi,University; Leuven,Catholic

University

The thermal behaviour of PS composites reinforced with

short sisal fibres is studied by means of thermogravimetric

and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. The thermal

stability of the composites is found to be higher than that

of sisal fibre and the PS matrix. The effects of fibre loading,

fibre length, fibre orientation and fibre modification on the

dynamic mechanical properties of the composites are

evaluated. Fibre modifications are carried out by

benzoylation, polystyrene maleic anhydride coating and

acetylation of the fibre and the treatments improve fibre-

matrix adhesion. PS/sisal composites are thermally more

stable than unreinforced PS and sisal fibre. The addition of

10% fibre considerably increases the modulus but the

increase is found to level off at higher fibre loadings. The

Tg values of the composites are lower than that of

unreinforced PS and may be attributed to the presence of

some residual solvents in the composites entrapped during

the composite preparation. The treated-fibre composites

show better properties than those of untreated-fibre

composites. The Arrhenius relationship is used to calculate

the activation energy of the glass transition of the

composites. A master curve is constructed based on time-

temperature superposition principle. 23 refs.


INDIA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.843446


61, No.16, 2001, p.2405-11

NATURAL-FIBRE-REINFORCEDPOLYURETHANE MICROFOAMSBledrzej A K; Zhang W; Chate A

Kassel,Universitat; Riga,Technical University

PU-based composites reinforced with woven flax and jute

fabrics are prepared with an evenly distributed microvoid

foam structure. The relationship between the resin-filled

grade and the microvoid content and the density is

described. The influence of the type of reinforcing fibre,

fibre and microvoid content on the mechanical properties

is studied. The investigation results for the static

mechanical properties of the composites are described by

approximate formulae. It is found that the specific data

are only slightly dependent on microvoid content.

Increasing the fibre content induces an increase in the

shear modulus and impact strength. However increasing

the microvoid content in the matrix results in decreased

shear modulus and impact strength. The woven flax fibre

results in composites with better mechanical strength than

the woven jute fibre composites. 23 refs.


LATVIA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.843435


13, No.6, April 2001, p.481-96

INSTRUMENTED PERFORATION IMPACTRESPONSE OF POLYPROPYLENECOMPOSITES WITH HYBRIDREINFORCEMENT FLAX/GLASS AND FLAX/CELLULOSE FIBRESBenevolenski O I; Karger-Kocsis J; Mieck K-P;

Reussmann T

Institut fuer Verbundwerkstoffe GmbH; Thueringisches

Institut fuer Textil- & Kunststoff-Forschung eV

The effect of partially replacing flax with discontinuous

cellulose (Lyocell) and discontinuous glass fibre on the

impact properties of flax mat-reinforced PP composites

was investigated by means of dynamic mechanical

thermal analysis and standard Charpy impact strength and

biaxial penetration impact tests. An attempt was made to

correlate instrumented falling weight impact and Charpy

impact results and the mode of failure of the composites,

as determined by scanning electron microscopy,

considered. 12 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.842900

Item 83Revista de Plasticos Modernos

81, No.538, April 2001, p.467-75

Spanish



POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESREINFORCED WITH VEGETABLE FIBRES: ANECOLOGICAL ALTERNATIVE FOR THEAUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRYArribas J M; Navarro J M; Perea J M; Rial C

Repsol-YPF

A comparative study was made of the mechanical and

thermal properties of PP composites reinforced with short

sisal and glass fibres, and the effects of fibre content and

coupling agents on these properties were investigated. The

results suggested sisal fibres as an effective replacement

for glass fibres in PP composites for automotive

applications. 39 refs.

EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; SPAIN;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.842574


10, No.5, 2001, p.229-36

EFFECT OF TRANSCRYSTALLINITY ON THEINTERFACE OF GREEN FLAX/POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITE MATERIALSZafeiropoulos N E; Baillie C A; Mathews F L


In recent years there has been an increasing interest in

using natural fibres as potential reinforcements for

polymers. The introduction of fibres such as flax in a

semicrystalline thermoplastic matrix such as isotactic PP

(iPP) has been shown to lead to the development of

transcrystallinity. The presence of an anisotropic layer

such as transcrystallinity in the composite material may

in turn have a profound effect on the mechanical behaviour

of the interface. The role of transcrystallinity is

investigated in green flax/iPP by means of fragmentation.

The results are discussed in terms of previously reported

results for treated flax fibres (dew retted)/iPP.

Transcrystallinity leads to a stronger interface in green

flax/iPP, and its thickness affects the interfacial strength,

with thinner transcrystalline layers giving a stronger

interface. Examination of the mode of failure at the

interface after the fragmentation test also supports the

conclusion that the transcrystalline interface is stronger

than the spherulitic interface in green flax/iPP composites.

24 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.842051


83, No.4, 24th Jan.2002, p.880-8

SUGARCANE BAGASSE REINFORCEDPHENOLIC AND LIGNOPHENOLICCOMPOSITESPaiva J M F; Frollini E

Sao Paulo,University

Lignin, extracted from sugarcane bagasse by the

organosolv process, is used as a partial substitute of phenol

(40 w/w) in resole phenolic matrices. Short sugarcane

fibres are used as reinforcement in these polymeric

matrices to obtain fibre-reinforced composites. Thermoset

polymers (phenolic and lignophenolic) and related

composites are obtained by compression moulding and

characterised by mechanical tests such as impact,

differential mechanical thermoanalysis (DMTA) and

hardness tests. Impact testing shows an improvement in

the impact strength when sugarcane bagasse is used. The

inner part of the fractured samples is analysed by scanning

electron microscopy, and the results indicate adhesion

between fibres and matrix, because the fibres are not set

free, suggesting they suffer a break during impact tests.

Modification of fibre surface does not lead to an

improvement in impact strength. The results as a whole

show that it is feasible to replace part of phenol by lignin

in phenolic matrices without loss of properties. 34 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.842043

Item 86British Plastics and Rubber

Oct. 2001, p.14-5

THE NATURAL ALTERNATIVE TO GLASS

Research being conducted at Demag Ergotech into the

reinforcement of plastics with natural fibres, mainly hemp

and flax fibres, for injection moulding is briefly discussed.

The advantages and limitations of these natural fibre

reinforced plastics are briefly considered and other

research and development projects being conducted at the

company are indicated.

DEMAG ERGOTECHEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.841712

Item 87Journal of Elastomers & Plastics

33, No.1, Jan. 2001, p.34-46

POTENTIAL OF RUBBERWOOD AS A FILLERIN EPOXIDIZED NATURAL RUBBERCOMPOUNDSIsmail H

Sains Malaysia,University

This study is concerned with evaluating the potential

of using rubber wood as a filler in epoxidised natural

rubber compounds. Loading ranges of 0 to 50 phr were

investigated with respect to the influence on curing

characteristics and mechanical properties. Results

indicated that the scorch and cure times decreased with

an increasing rubber wood loading. Tensile modulus

and hardness of the composites increased with rubber

wood loading, whereas tensile strength and tear

strength decreased. The failure mechanism of the



composites was investigated by the use of scanning

electron microscopy which indicated that the increasing

rubber wood loading weakened the rubber-rubber wood

interactions. These interactions were determined by

using an equilibrium swelling in hydrocarbon solvent.

24 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.840559


22, No.6, Dec. 2001, p.815-22

INTERFACIAL ADHESION IN JUTE-POLYOLEFIN COMPOSITESTripathy S S; Levita G; Di Landro L

Ravenshaw College; Pisa,University; Milan,Politecnico

The interfacial adhesion is studied between four different

forms of jute fibres used as reinforcement in polyolefin

matrices. Mercerised, silver, bleached and untreated jute

in LDPE and PP matrices were investigated in terms of

mechanical performance. The fibre-matrix adhesion was

estimated by means of the critical fibre length, and the

stress transfer ability parameter, with such parameters

being obtained by single fibre composite tests. Tests were

carried out to evaluate the mean tensile strength of the

fibres, the mean critical fibre lengths, and the stress

transfer ability parameter for every fibre-matrix

combination according to Weibull’s statistical method.

Thermal-mechanical characterisation of the fibres was

also carried out to evaluate the resistance to processing

conditions. 29 refs.



Accession no.840491


22, No.6, Dec. 2001, p.770-8

NOVEL ECO-FRIENDLY BIODEGRADABLECOIR-POLYESTER AMIDE BIOCOMPOSITES:FABRICATION AND PROPERTIESEVALUATIONRout J; Misra M; Tripathy S S; Nayak S K;

Mohanty A K



The results are discussed of different chemical surface

modifications carried out on coir fibres in order to improve

its efficiency as a reinforcement in polyesteramide. The

fibres were surface modified through alkali treatment,

cyanoethylation, bleaching and vinyl grafting. The effects

of different fibre surface treatments and the influence of

differing fibre amounts on the mechanical performance

of the resultant composites is examined. 13 refs.

INDIA; USA

Accession no.840487

Item 90Polymer Recycling

6, No.2-3, 2001, p.109-18

MODIFICATION OF RECYCLATES OFPOLYETHYLENE AND POLY(VINYLCHLORIDE) WITH SCRAP PAPER CELLULOSEFIBRESKowakska E; Pelka J

Poland,Industrial Chemistry Research Institute

Compositions of secondary LDPE and PVC filled with

scrap paper cellulose fibres as a filler were evaluated

to establish the formulation and to determine an

optimum filler content. To evaluate the resulting

compositions, and to optimise the formulations,

physico-mechanical studies, biodegradability and

processing of the compositions was carried out.

Resultant thermoplastics are reported to exhibit high

rigidity and hardness with a good surface finish and

good mechanical property data sufficient for intended

end-uses such as flower pots, rubbish bins, buckets,

curbs and fence elements, etc. Preliminary economic

analysis indicated that the most suitable cellulose filler

was in the form of scrap newspapers or office waste.

34 refs.


Accession no.840464

Item 91Polymer Preprints. Volume 41. Number 2. Conference

proceedings.

Washington, D.C., 20th-24th Aug.2000, p.1792-3

CHARACTERISATION OF PLANT FIBRES BYINFRA-RED SPECTROSCOPYGarside P; Wyeth P

Southampton,University


The application of IR spectroscopy with respect to

the characterisation of cellulosic (plant) fibres is

demonstrated. The ability to characterise fibres is of

importance to textile conservators, as this information

aids in the determination of the age and origin of the

artefact from which they are taken, and may influence

the choice of treatment. The fibres under examination

are taken largely from the bast group (flax, hemp, jute

and ramie); in addition, sisal and cotton are compared.

FT-IR microspectroscopy and ATR techniques are

employed. To complement the conventional use of

these methods, the inherent polarisation effects of the

equipment are exploited to record polarised IR

spectra . Jute , s isal and cot ton are readi ly

differentiated, but flax, hemp and ramie prove more

difficult to distinguish. Peak ratio techniques are

applied in the latter case. 2 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.840045



Item 92Journal of Materials Science Letters

20, No.18, 15th Sept.2001, p.1711-3

INFLUENCE OF NOVEL COUPLING AGENTSON MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF JUTEREINFORCED POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITEKhan M A; Hinrichsen G; Drzal L T

Berlin,Technical University; Michigan,State University

Modern technology relies heavily on the development of

new materials having superior properties, such as

mechanical and thermal properties along with toughness.

Fibre-reinforced composites have successfully proven

their versatile qualities due to their specific properties,

e.g. high mechanical properties, stiffness, light weight,

etc. The potential of natural fibre-based composites

prepared mainly from jute as reinforcing fibre in polymer

matrix has received much attention. Jute fibres are polar

and of hydrophilic nature due to the presence of several

hydroxyl groups in their cellulosic backbone. However,

this is the most important disadvantage of using natural

fibre in non-polar polymer like PP. Selection of proper

coupling agents is important to improve the fibre-matrix

interaction. The effects of two monomers, HEMA and

EHA, used as coupling agents on the performance of jute

fabric (hessian cloth) PP composite, are reported. 7 refs.


USA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.839846

Item 93Japan Chemical Week

42, No.2150, 6th Dec.2001, p.4

SEKISUI CHEMICAL IN SYNTHETIC LUMBERALLIANCE WITH U.S. FIRM

Sekisui Chemical of Japan and the US technology

development venture Strandics have signed an agreement

concerning the production of synthetic wood using a

thermoplastic resin (HDPE or PVC) and a vegetable fibre.

Brief details are given.

SEKISUI CHEMICAL; STRANDICSJAPAN; USA

Accession no.839028


91, No.12, Dec.2001, p.29-33

English; German

ECOLOGICAL BENEFICIAL COMPOSITESHieber G; Kohler R; Alex R

Schock & Co.GmbH; Reutlingen,Fachhochschule

We are told that world-wide interest in the use of natural

fibres in engineering applications is increasing, and the

environmental and engineering advantages of the

materials are explained. This article then looks at

reinforcing PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate)

thermosetting resins with flax fibres under the section

headings: comparison of fibre characteristics, advantages

of PMMA as polymer matrix, adhesion promoters

improve mechanical characteristics, acrylic fibre

composite materials, comparison of natural fibre and glass

fibre composite materials, production of different

components, and testing industrial production. (Translated

from Kunststoffe 91, No.12, Dec.2001, p.70/5).


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.838991


36, No.20, 15th Oct. 2001, p.4903-9

PREPARATION, PROCESSING ANDCHARACTERIZATION OF BIODEGRADABLEWOOD FLOUR/STARCH-CELLULOSEACETATE COMPOUNDSCunha A M; Liu Z Q; Feng Y; Yi X-S; Bernardo C A

Minho,Universidade; Hangzhou,Zhejiang University

Details are given of the compounding of wood flour and

a starch-cellulose acetate blend of a configurable co-

rotating twin screw extruder. The compounds were

injection moulded and the mechanical and rheological

properties of the mouldings were determined. The effect

of the wood flour content on shear viscosity is discussed.

13 refs.

CHINA; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;

PORTUGAL; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.838729

Item 96Materials World

9, No.8, Suppl., Aug.2001, p.2

EUROPEAN NETWORK FOR SUSTAINABLECOMPOSITES

A new network has been launched in the UK to promote

the development of sustainable composite materials,

which are composites manufactured from renewable and

sustainable resources such as natural fibres, which employ

environmentally-sensitive fabrication processes and

biodegrade at the end of their lives. Full details are

provided of the new network, called the Sustainable

Composites Network, and its proposed strategy.

WARWICK MANUFACTURING GROUP;

WARWICK,UNIVERSITY; WALES,UNIVERSITY;

UK,SUSTAINABLE COMPOSITES NETWORK;

EUROPEAN SCIENCE FOUNDATIONEUROPE-GENERAL; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN

UNION; GERMANY; SPAIN; UK; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.838619

Item 97Rubber and Plastics News 2

23, No.4, 19th Nov.2001, p.3

NEW TIRE FEATURES STARCH DERIVATIVE



The “GT3 BioTred” from Goodyear is the subject of this

concise article. The new tyre uses a polymer reinforced

in part with a corn starch derivative, which replaces some

of the carbon black. Compared with conventional tyres,

the BioTred is less polluting to produce, quieter on the

road, boosts car fuel economy, and stops faster in the wet.

BMW AG; GOODYEAR; FORD EUROPEEUROPE-GENERAL; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN

UNION; FRANCE; GERMANY; TURKEY; UK; WESTERN

EUROPE

Accession no.838586


22, No.5, Oct.2001, p.680-9

FLOW-INDUCED FIBER ORIENTATION ININJECTION MOLDED FLAX FIBERREINFORCED POLYPROPYLENEAurich T; Mennig G


A thorough experimental study of flax fibre orientation

in a plate processed by injection moulding was conducted.

The material used was PP containing 30 wt % flax fibres

and 2 wt % maleic anhydride-grafted PP as coupling

agent. The state of orientation was described by

orientation tensors and partly by frequency distribution

diagrams. Composite stiffness was predicted by use of a

modified classical laminate theory including

unidirectional models and orientation averaging.

Comparison of the measured and calculated modulus in

tension showed good agreement. 23 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.838269


20, No.4, 2001, p.335-40

CHEMICAL RESISTANCE AND TENSILEPROPERTIES OF EPOXY/POLYCARBONATEBLEND COATED BAMBOO FIBRESRajulu A V; Rao G B; Reddy R L; Sanjeevi R

Sri Krishnadevaraya University; India,Central Leather

Research Institute

The resistance of the above coated fibres to acids, alkalis

and solvents and their tensile properties were investigated.

It was found that the coated fibres exhibited higher tensile

strength than uncoated fibres and were resistant to acids

and alkalis but their solvent resistance was minimal. 13

refs.

INDIA

Accession no.838108


20, No.4, 2001, p.321-34

POTENTIALITY OF PINEAPPLE LEAF FIBREAS REINFORCEMENT IN PALF-POLYESTERCOMPOSITE: SURFACE MODIFICATION ANDMECHANICAL PERFORMANCEMishra S; Misra M; Tripathy S S; Nayak S K;

Mohanty A K

Ravenshaw College; Iowa State University;


The mechanical properties of composites consisting of

surface modified pineapple leaf fibre and general-purpose

polyester resin were investigated to determine the

suitability of these fibres as reinforcement for plastics.

Surface modifications employed included dewaxing,

alkali treatment, cyanoethylation and grafting of

acrylonitrile onto dewaxed fibres. The effects of fibre

content and fibre surface treatment on the tensile, flexural

and impact properties of the composites were evaluated

and fibre-matrix adhesion evaluated by means of scanning

electron microscopy. 15 refs.

INDIA; USA

Accession no.838107


28, No.11, 2001, p.T/55-6

STUDY OF THE EFFECT OF ACYLATEDLIGNIN ON THE PHYSICOMECHANICALPROPERTIES OF WOOD BASED COMPOSITESEfanov M V

Altai,State University; Russia,Scientific Research

Institute of Wood-Filled Thermoplastics

Experiments are carried out to determine the properties

of acylated lignin and cellulose and mixtures thereof,

when used as thermoplastic binders in wood composites

for the production of wood-based boards. The study

involves the identification of the dependence of certain

physicomechanical properties of wood-based composite

on the quantitative ratio of binder and filler when acylated

lignin and cellulose are used as the thermoplastic binders

5 refs. (Article translated from Plasticheskie Massy, No.3,

2001, pp.29).

RUSSIA

Accession no.838064

Item 102Plastics News(USA)

13, No.40, 3rd Dec.2001, p.13

ONAGA OFFERS WOOD-FLOUR PE, PPEsposito F

Onaga Composites in Kansas is a new compounder that

will begin producing wood-flour-filled PE and PP

compounds in January. The firm will operate a twin-screw

extrusion line with 15 million pounds of annual capacity

and wood-flour loadings of up to 60%. Onaga expects to

have 30 employees by Q1 2002 and could add a second

similar-sized twin-screw extruder in Q1 as well. First-



year sales are expected to be around 7m US dollars.

Onaga’s products could end up in such products as

landscaping bender boards, decorative moulding, deck

boards, door thresholds and spa skirting.

ONAGA COMPOSITES LLCUSA

Accession no.837966

Item 103Additives for Polymers

Dec.2001, p.9

SHORT SISAL FIBRES AS A REINFORCEMENTFOR BIODEGRADABLE POLYESTER PBS

Details are provided in this article about investigations

carried out at the Chiba Institute of Technology in Japan

into the reinforcement of polybutylene succinate (PBS),

a biodegradable polyester, with natural sisal fibres, with

the aim of developing a fully degradable composite with

superior mechanical properties. Materials used and

method are detailed, and the Institute’s results are

presented.

CHIBA,INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGYEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; JAPAN; UK;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.836813


9, No.8, 2001, p.549-60

EFFECT OF KENAF FIBRES ON THEPROPERTIES OF NATURAL RUBBERVULCANIZATESEl-Sabbagh S H; El-Hariri D M; El-Ghaffar M A A

Cairo,National Research Centre

The mechanical properties and swelling behaviour of

natural rubber vulcanisates loaded with kenaf fibres were

studied using hydrated silica, resorcinol and

hexamethylene tetramine as the adhesion system, and are

compared with those of NR composites loaded wit

synthetic polyester short fibres. The effect of fibre content

on these mechanical properties were also studied before

and after ageing, and scanning electron microscopy was

used to investigate the surface texture of unreinforced and

reinforced vulcanisates. 23 refs.

EGYPT

Accession no.836554

Item 105Journal of Macromolecular Science B

40, No.3-4, 2001, p.529-38

THERMAL CHARACTERIZATIONS OF WOODFLOUR/STARCH CELLULOSE ACETATECOMPOUNDSLiu Z Q; Cunha A M; Yi X S; Bernardo C A

Minho,Universidade; China,National Key Laboratory

of Advanced Composites

TGA, DSC and dynamic mechanical analysis(DMA) were

carried out to study the interfacial interaction between

wood flour and starch/cellulose acetate(SCA) blend. It

was found that the main components in the compounds,

i.e. starch, cellulose and cellulose acetate, started to

decompose at about 330C, a characteristic temp. for

breaking glycoside-linked glucose units. Complexation

of lignin in wood flour with amylose in SCA occurred

during compounding, which gave rise to new crystallites

that had a m.p. of around 160C. Hydrogen bonding was

thought to play a key role in the crystallisation. With

increasing wood flour content, both the Tg and the

softening temp. increased as a result of the restricted

molecular chain mobility imposed by rigid cellulose

filaments. In addition, the DMA data showed that amylose

could occur as linkages in the crystallites. All these

observations indicated that the interfacial adhesion

between SCA and wood flour was relatively strong, even

in the absence of a coupling agent. 20 refs. (Europhysics

Conference on Structure Development during Polymer

Processing: Physical Aspects, Sept.2000, Minho,

Portugal)

CHINA; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;

PORTUGAL; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.836384


41, No.9, Sept.2001, p.1471-85

REVIEW ON INTERFACE MODIFICATION ANDCHARACTERIZATION OF NATURAL FIBERREINFORCED PLASTIC COMPOSITESGeorge J; Sreekala M S; Thomas S

Eindhoven,University of Technology; Mahatma

Gandhi,University

A critical review is presented of the literature on physical

and chemical treatment methods that improve fibre-matrix

adhesion in natural fibre-reinforced plastic composites

and on their characterisation methods. The chemical

modification methods include silane treatments,

isocyanate treatment, graft copolymerisation and

impregnation of fibres. The characterisation methods

include inverse gas chromatography, X-ray photoelectron

spectroscopy, environmental SEM, energy-dispersive X-

ray analysis, solid-state carbon-13 NMR spectroscopy,

atomic force microscopy and micromechanical studies.

Biodegradation of these composites is also discussed. 102

refs.



Accession no.836147


Manufacturing

33A, No.1, 2002, p.43-52

EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL AGEING ON



THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OFBAMBOO-GLASS FIBRE REINFORCEDPOLYMER MATRIX HYBRID COMPOSITESThwe M N; Lio K

Nanyang,Technological University

Short bamboo fibre reinforced PP composites (BFRP) and

short bamboo-glass fibre reinforced PP hybrid composites

(BGRP) are fabricated using a compression moulding

method. Maleic anhydride PP (MAPP) is used as a

compatibiliser to improve the adhesion between the

reinforcements and the matrix material. By incorporating

up to 20% (by mass) glass fibre, the tensile and flexural

modulus of BGRP are increased by 12.5 and 10%,

respectively; and the tensile and flexural strength are

increased by 7 and 25%, respectively, compared to those

of BFRP. Sorption behaviour and effects of environmental

ageing on tensile properties of both BFRP and BGRP

systems are studied by immersing samples in water for

up to 1200 h at 25 deg.C. Compared to BFRP, a 4% drop

in saturated moisture level is seen in BGRP. After ageing

in water for 1200 h, reduction in tensile strength and

modulus for BGRP is nearly two times less than that of

BFRP. Use of MAPP as coupling agent in the PP matrix

results in decreased saturated moisture absorption level

and enhanced mechanical properties for both BFRP and

BGRP systems. Thus it is shown that the durability of

bamboo fibre reinforced PP can be enhanced by

hybridisation with a small amount of glass fibres. 34 refs.

SINGAPORE

Accession no.835056


8, No.5, 2001, p.313-43

SURFACE MODIFICATIONS OF NATURALFIBRES AND PERFORMANCE OF THERESULTING BIOCOMPOSITES: AN OVERVIEWMohanty A K; Misra M; Drzal L T


A review of biocomposite highlighting recent studies and

developments, in natural fibres, biopolymers and various

surface modifications of natural fibres to improve fibre

matrix adhesion is presented. One of the most important

factors determining the final performance of the

composite materials is the quality of the fibre matrix

interface. A sufficient degree of adhesion between the

surface of hydrophilic ligno-cellulosic natural fibres and

the polymer matrix resin is usually desired to optimum

performance of the biocomposite. Dewaxing, alkali

treatment, isocyanate treatment, peroxide treatment, vinyl

grafting, bleaching, acetylation and treatment with

coupling agents are useful ways to improve fibre-matrix

adhesion in natural fibre composites. Two major areas of

biocomposites are discussed. One is the most predominant

biocomposite currently being commercialised for semi-

structural use in the durable goods industries, i.e. natural

fibre PP composites. The second type is the biocomposites

from natural fibres and biodegradable plastics. Two major

classes of biogradable plastics are available, one being

derived from renewable resources and the second type

being synthesised in the laboratory from petrochemical

sources, which can also be used as matrix materials to

make value-added biocomposites. 101 refs.

USA

Accession no.835049

Item 109European Plastics News

28, No.9, Oct.2001, p.69-70

LONG STORYVink D

An increasing number of long-fibre reinforced

thermoplastics and processes are available. Compounding

extruder manufacturer Coperion Werner & Pfleiderer and

injection moulding machinery maker Husky introduced

an in-line compounding process last year in a technical

joint venture. Now Krauss-Maffei is presenting its

injection moulding compounder (IMC) at K2001. Shot

weights can exceed 40kg and PP, ABS or PA can be

processed with long glass or natural fibres. An IMC would

cost about 2.5 times more than a standard injection

moulding machine, but the material savings should give

a payback within two years, the company claims. Press

manufacturer Dieffenbacher has supplied its presses for

ten direct LFT systems, including its complete LFT-D

lines. Customers include Menzolit-Fibron which

introduced the LFT development to replace a GMT front-

end application for Volkswagen.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.834686

Item 110Materials World

9, No.5, May 2001, p.24

BIOMASS GRASS MAKES FOR COMPOSTABLECARSThomas S M

Researchers at the University of Warwick are currently

developing innovative new applications for Miscanthus,

or elephant grass, namely biodegradable plastic car parts.

As a construction material, Miscanthus can be used in

fibreboards, such as MDF. For plastic wheel trims, short

fibres of the grass are used, which are blended by hand

mixing and then injection moulded to create the part. By

using Miscanthus as a structural filler, strength is given

to biodegradable plastics that were previously too weak

to be used in many car parts. Car parts made using

Miscanthus can be composted at the end of their life

instead of being put into a landfill.

WARWICK,UNIVERSITYEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.834608



Item 111Plastics and Rubber Weekly

26th Oct.2001, p.24

INDUSTRY LISTENS TO THE SOUND OFNATURAL FIBRES

Natural fibres such as flax and hemp can provide a good

alternative reinforcing fibre for use in a range of

applications. During K, Demag Ergotech will be

producing a technical part on a 50-tonne Ergotech Viva

machine, processing Arborform, a fully natural moulding

material made from tree-derived lignin and wood fibre.

The automotive sector is one of the key end-user markets

for natural fibre reinforced plastics, largely because of

the benefits in terms of sound deadening. Demag Ergotech

predicts applications will also emerge in the domestic

appliance sector and in sports equipment.

DEMAG ERGOTECH GMBHEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.834566


26th Oct.2001, p.1

FORD/BMW ROLL OUT CORN TYRES

Ford had introduced tyres partly strengthened with a

modified cornstarch on its new Fiesta. BMW is about to

begin using them on a version of its 3-Series saloon. BothOEMs have signed supply contracts to use Goodyear’s

energy-saving GT3 BioTred tyres, which include the

starch as a reinforcing filler. Goodyear developed the

system with Italian biomaterials firm Novamont. It

replaces some of the carbon black and silica reinforcement

in the tyre formulation. Goodyear claims the tyre cuts

fuel consumption by 5%, reduces rolling noise by 50%

and improves wet braking performance by 10% compared

with its GT2 tyre range. This abstract includes all the

information contained in the original article.

GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER CO.USA

Accession no.834561

Item 113Composite Structures

54, No. 2-3, Nov./Dec. 2001, p.355-60

THERMOPLASTIC PULTRUSION OF NATURALFIBRE REINFORCED COMPOSITESVan de Velde K; Kiekens P

Ghent,University

The results are reported of an investigation into the use

of flax as reinforcement in thermoplastic pultruded

composites. The pultrusion line used in the experiments

is briefly described and candidate thermoplastic materials

are evaluated. The properties of flax fibre are described

and compared with those of glass fibres and the flexural

and tensile properties of flax/PP composites are compared

with those of glass fibre-reinforced polypropylene. (Third

International Conference on Composite Science &

Technology) 21 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.832837

Item 114Composite Structures

54, No. 2-3, Nov./Dec. 2001, p.207-14

POLYPROPYLENE/WOOD FLOURCOMPOSITES: TREATMENTS ANDPROPERTIESIchazo M N; Albano C; Gonzalez J; Perera R; Candal

M V

Simon Bolivar,Universidad; Venezuela,Universidad

Central

The results are reported of a study of the effects of various

coupling agents and compatibilisers on the mechanical

properties, thermal properties, morphology and water

absorption of wood flour filled PP. Investigative

techniques employed included tensile testing, DSC and

scanning electron microscopy. The filler was treated with

vinyl-tris-(2-methoxyethoxy)silane, sodium hydroxide

and two commercial polypropylenes functionalised with

maleic anhydride. (Third International Conference on

Composite Science & Technology) 16 refs.

VENEZUELA

Accession no.832824


47, No.7, July 2001, p.58/65

FOAMING EXPANDS POSSIBILITIES FORWOOD-FIBER COMPOSITESSchut J H

It is explained that wood-filled plastic profiles are growing

quickly in non-structural wood-replacement applications

such as decking. But now processors of wood composites

are evaluating the newer alternative of foamed

composites, which are lighter in weight and feel more

like real wood. This article examines all the advantages

of foaming, the process and its difficulties, and extrusion

equipment and dies. It also presents a comprehensive list

of new foamed wood composite products.

AMERICAN WOOD FIBERS; ACCEL COLOR; BP

AMOCO POLYMERS; CLARIANT ADDITIVE

MASTERBATCHES; DAVIS-STANDARD CORP.;

EXTRUSIONTEK MILACRON; EXTRUTECH

INTERNATIONAL INC.; REEDY

INTERNATIONAL CORP.; SOLVAY POLYMERS

INC.; STRANDEX CORP.; ISO-TECK; US,NAVY;

WASHINGTON STATE,UNIVERSITY; MARLEY

MOULDINGS; EMPIRE CO.; SANDFORD CORP.;

MIKRON INDUSTRIES; CORRECT BUILDING

PRODUCTS; COUNTERTOPS INC.; LOUISIANA-



PACIFIC CORP.; FOREST PRODUCTS

LABORATORY; AMESBURY GROUP INC.;

CERTAINTEED CORP.; COMFORT-TEX; ROYAL

WOOD HOME PRODUCTS; HUNTER DOUGLAS

INDUSTRIES BV; COMPOS-A-TRON INC.; CPI

PLASTICS GROUP LTD.; CRILA PLASTICS INC.;

DRY RIVER INC.; SOUTHERN COMPOSITE

TECHNOLOGIES; JET PLASTICS; PLASTIC

EXTRUSION TECHNOLOGIES INC.; POLYWOOD

PRODUCTS; PRECISION COMPOSITES; PROFILE

SOLUTIONS INC.; TRI-EX COMPOSITES;

YOUNGSTOWN PLASTICS TOOLING &

MACHINERYCANADA; USA

Accession no.832601

Item 116Macplas International

May 2001, p.77-9

ALOE FIBRES FOR REINFORCEMENT OFCOMPOSITESCarrino L

In this article the use of natural fibres from the aloe plant

as reinforcement for composite material is examined

fully. The article looks at figures for the annual

production of aloe fibre, at the types of fibre that the

aloe plant generates, and in depth at the mechanical

characteristics of aloe fibre. It also discusses the use ofaloe fibres in composites, and mentions hybrid

composites which can be achieved by coupling aloe

fibres within the same matrix to other fibres such as those

of glass, carbon, or aramide.

SYDNEY,UNIVERSITYAUSTRALIA; BRAZIL; NORTH AMERICA; SOUTH AMERICA;

TANZANIA

Accession no.832550


No.46, July/Aug.2001, p.67-9

English; French

AGRICULTURAL WASTE-BASED COMPOSITES

Durafibre Inc. is a joint venture company owned by

Cargill Ltd., the Government of Saskatchewan, and Sask-

Can Fibre Inc., which is a farmer-owned co-operative.

The company produces “Durafibre” and “Durafill” which

are natural fibres derived from agricultural waste such as

oilseed-flax straw, most of which would otherwise be

burned as the only means of disposal. This article explains

the benefit of this alternative, and of the materials

themselves.

DURAFIBRE INC.; CARGILL LTD.;

SASKATCHEWAN,GOVERNMENT; SASK-CAN

FIBRE INC.CANADA; NORTH AMERICA; WORLD

Accession no.832528


No.46, July/Aug.2001, p.64-6

English; French

NATURAL FIBRES

This article discusses the use of natural fibre-reinforced

composite materials in automotive applications, reporting

that up until now they have been used exclusively for

interior components. The article highlights current

developments where researchers and designers are

working on using them in exterior components too. It

concludes that natural fibres as reinforcement material in

these applications are just beginning a very promising

career.

DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.; AUDI AG; BAYER

AGEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

SWITZERLAND; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.832527


82, No.9 28th Nov.2001, p.2150-4

SOLID-STATE CARBON-13 NMR STUDY OFMATERIAL COMPOSITES BASED ONSUGARCANE BAGASSE ANDTHERMOPLASTICS POLYMERSStael G C; Tavares M I B

Rio de Janeiro,Universidade Federal

Dried sugarcane fibre was ground to a length of 5 mm

and melt blended with poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate),

polypropylene and polyethylene. The blends were studied

using magic angle spinning (MAS) and cross-polarisation

MAS carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance

spectroscopy. The proton spin-lattice relaxation time in

the rotating frame indicated compatibility at the molecular

level. 25 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.832434

Item 120Macromolecular Symposia

170, June 2001, p.157-64

POLY(ETHYLENE-CO-METHACRYLIC ACID)COPOLYMER AS AN EFFECTIVECOMPATIBILIZER OF LDPE/WOOD FLOURCOMPOSITESedlackova M; Lacik I; Chodak I

Bratislava,Polymer Institute

The mechanical properties of a ternary system

comprising low density polyethylene (LDPE),

poly(ethylene-co-methacrylic acid) copolymer

(EMAA), and wood flour (WF) were studied. To

obtain better understanding of the mutual interactions

between the components, binary LDPE/EMAA and

EMAA/WF blends were also studied, and the results



were compared with published information for LDPE/

WF composite. The mechanical properties for the

LDPE/EMAA blends were almost additive, whereas

the properties of the EMAA/WF mixtures were similar

to those of LDPE/WF composites compatibilised in

situ by peroxide crosslinking. In the ternary blends,

addition of 5 to 10 wt% of EMAA was enough to give

high values of the Young’S modulus and tensile

strength. The beneficial effect of the copolymer can

be explained by the introduction of close contact

between the organic filler and the polyolefin matrix

at the phase boundaries. 14 refs.

SLOVAK REPUBLIC; SLOVAKIA

Accession no.831765


20, No.12, 15th June 2001, p.1125-6

EFFECTS OF THE REMOVAL OF MATRIXSUBSTANCES AS A PRETREATMENT IN THEPRODUCTION OF HIGH STRENGTH RESINIMPREGNATED WOOD BASED MATERIALSYano H; Hirose A; Collins P J; Yasaki Y

Kyoto,University; Sekisui House Ltd.; CSIRO;

Monash,University

The strength of resin-impregnated wood can be improved

by the removal of the weaker consituents of the wood

matrix, mainly lignin and hemicellulose, prior to resin

impregnation. Hoop pine veneers were treated with 1%

sodium chlorite solution alone, sodium hydroxide solution

alone, or sodium chlorite solution followed by sodium

hydroxide, before impregnation with phenol

formaldehyde resin. The mechanical properties of the

resulting materials were determined. It was found that

improvements of Young’s modulus and bending strength

in the final materials were in the order of 40% for sodium

chlorite alone, 20% for sodium hydroxide alone, and 48%

for both. The use of 2% sodium chlorite solution caused

the wood veneers to become too fragile for impregnation.

5 refs.

AUSTRALIA; JAPAN

Accession no.831673

Item 122Gummibereifung

77, No.3, March 2001, p.124-5

REVOLUTIONARY ENVIRONMENTALCONCEPTMutz K

Engineers at the world’s largest tyre producer are reported

to have made a sensational breakthrough: the first efficient

tyre with integrated ecological materials is on the market.

The natural product corn starch mostly replaces the

additive carbon black in the tread compound of the new

summer tyre GT-3. Thus Goodyear has succeeded in

contributing significantly to reducing CO2 emissions,

which car producers must cut by 25% by 2008. Details

are given of the new Bio-TREAD technology, which relies

on corn starch produced by photosynthesis.

GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER CO.EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.831589


28, No.9, 2001, p.T/70-7

MODIFICATION OF THERMOPLASTICPOLYMERS WITH WASTEPAPER CELLULOSEFIBRES. PART 1- PVC COMPOSITIONS FILLEDWITH WASTEPAPER CELLULOSE FIBRESPelka J; Kowalska E

The use is examined of used cellulose from waste paper

as a filler in compositions based on primary PVC as well

as recycled PVC. Using this method, new compositions

are obtained that are cheaper than the virgin polymer, but

with altered and improved properties for particular

applications. The use of coupling agents, processing aids,

and compatibilisers is discussed in order to increase the

interaction between the cellulose and the polymer matrix.

Mechanical and processing properties of PVC filled with

a cellulose filler can be controlled by suitable selection

of their composition. 17 refs. (Article translated from

Polymery, No.3, 2001, p.201)


Accession no.831547

Item 124Chemical Marketing Reporter

260, No.10a, 10th Sept.2001, p.6

DOW SEEKS TO BOOST SALES OF WHEATSTRAW AND PU MATERIALSBrown R

Dow Chemical is hoping to build its current niche in the

wood composites market by advancing the use of

composites made from wheat straw and PU resin.

Although sales are small, the company is seeking to build

the business to 100m US dollars over the next five to 10

years. Earlier this year, the company purchased Canada-

based Isobord Enterprises, a manufacturer of composite

panels made from wheat straw and PU resin. Dow is

marketing the building panels under the name Woodstalk.

Leading applications for the product will be in

construction, ready-to-assemble furniture and floor

underlay.

DOW CHEMICAL CO.NORTH AMERICA

Accession no.831470


21st Sept.2001, p.10



PROCESSOR RUNS UNDRIED WOOD

It is briefly reported that the University of Maine has

installed a Davis-Standard Woodtruder wood processing

system, which will be used to run contract research,

product testing and development trials at its Advanced

Engineered Wood Composites Centre. The Woodtruder

system comprises a WT94 75mm diameter twin screw

extruder, 24:1 Mark V single screw extruder, die tooling

system, spray cooling tank with driven rollers, travelling

cutting saw, run-off table, gravimetric blending unit and

PC-based blender control. The ability to handle undried

wood is a key benefit of the Woodtruder system.

DAVIS-STANDARD CORP.USA

Accession no.831464


28, No.5, May 2001, p.38

RECYCLING ACCOMPLISHED IN THREESTEPS

Lear, one of Europe’s two main producers of natural fibre

composites, has developed a technique to recycle natural

fibres so that they can be used again for automotive parts.

The three-step process involves reducing the flax-PP carrier

part to small pieces; the second is the separation of the

flax-PP from fabric foam granules; the final one is the

injection moulding of granulated flax-PP with additives to

improve mechanical properties and reduce odour.

LEAR CORP.WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.831396


28, No.5, May 2001, p.37-8

NATURAL SELECTION

The renewability and environmentally friendly qualities

of natural fibres have led to their increased use in composite

applications, particularly in the European automotive

industry. Only a small fraction of composite waste can be

recycled, the rest must be incinerated. Incorporating natural

fibres in the composites can reduce the impact of

incineration, because they only release as much CO2 as

the plant absorbed when it was growing. Natural fibres

can also be chemically recycled back to raw materials.

However, European environmental legislation is

threatening the use of natural fibres in composites. The

ELV directive sets recycling quotas of 80% by 2007 and

85% by 2015, allowing feedstock recycling to raw materials

only in exceptional cases. AKV has asked the German

federal environment ministry to interpret the directive to

allow feedstock recycling and energy recovery as

equivalent to recycling for renewable materials.

WESTERN EUROPE-GENERAL

Accession no.831395

Item 128Kautchuk und Gummi Kunststoffe

54, No.9, 2001, p.474-6

RICE HUSK ASH IN POLYSILOXANECOMPOUNDSSereda L; Pereira H L; Reis Nunes R C; Visconte L L

Y; Guimaraes Furtado C R

Rio de Janeiro,Universidade Federal; Rio de

Janeiro,Universidade do Estado

Black rice husk ash was used as an alternative filler to

silica in silicone rubber and the physicomechanical

properties (tensile strength, tear strength, elongation at

break, hardness and density) of the filled rubber

investigated. Scanning electron microscopy was used to

examine fracture surfaces of the filled rubber. It was found

that the black rice husk ash filled rubber exhibited a tensile

strength similar to silica filled rubber although tear

strength was lower. 12 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.830511

Item 129Iranian Journal of Polymer Science & Technology

14, No.1, May 2001, p.31-8

Persian

EFFECT OF ALPHA-CELLULOSE FIBRE ONTHE PROPERTIES OF MELAMINE-FORMALDEHYDE MOULDING COMPOUNDSKhatibi M A; Beheshti M A; Morshedian J

Iran,Polymer Institute

The effect of alpha-cellulose fibre on the mechanical

properties, wettability and gloss of the above moulding

compounds was investigated. It was found that alpha-

cellulose had no effect on mechanical properties but a

significant effect on the wettability and gloss of the

moulding compounds. 14 refs.

IRAN

Accession no.830310


81, No.6, 8th August 2001, p.1420-8

IMPACT BEHAVIOR OF SAWDUST/RECYCLED-PP COMPOSITESLi TQ; Ng CN; Li RKY

Hong Kong,University

A fracture mechanics study was conducted using

instrumented Izod and Charpy tests to characterise the

dynamic impact fracture behaviour of various percentages

of sawdust wood flour reinforced polypropylene

composites. Two batches of recycled polypropylene were

used as the matrix, one with maleated propylene (MAPP)

compatibiliser grafted by melt extrusion. It was found

that the notched Izod strength and fracture energy of the

MAPP containing composites increased with filler content

in contrast with the unmodified polypropylene



composites. Both compounds had higher fracture

toughness than the base polypropylene although strong

interfacial bonding of filler to matrix was not observed.

Further characterisation is proceeding. Full details of the

test results are given. 22 refs.

CHINA

Accession no.830238


81, No.6, 8th August 2001, p.1333-40

PRELIMINARY STUDIES ON THE USE OFMODIFIED ALCELL LIGNIN AS A COUPLINGAGENT IN THE BIOFIBER COMPOSITESRozman H D; Tan K W; Kumar R N; Abubakar A


The compatibility and interfacial bond strength between

naturally hydrophilic lignocellulosic materials and

hydrophobic thermoplastics is inherently poor. Toluene

diisocyanate (TDI) modified lignin was used as a

coupling agent between oil palm empty fruit bunch fibres

and polypropylene. As a control, unmodified lignin/PP

was also evaluated. The materials were mixed and then

hot pressed into sheet for the production of cut tensile

and flexural test specimens. Scanning electron

microscopy (SEM) was used to study the morphology

of both modified and unmodified compounds. Test

results demonstrated that the mechanical properties of

TDI modified compounds were superior to the

unmodified equivalent and SEM showed that the

modification also resulted in better blending and

compatibility between the lignin and polypropylene

matrix. Full compounding and test procedures are given

with detailed results. 13 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.830229


20, No.7, 2001, p.819-23

DYNAMIC VULCANIZATION OFRUBBERWOOD-FILLED POLYPROPYLENE/NATURAL RUBBER BLENDSIsmail H; Salmah; Nasir M

Penang,Universiti Sains Malaysia

The effect of increasing sulphur content, and from this

the degree of vulcanisation, in a dynamically vulcanised

thermoplastic elastomer of polypropylene and natural

rubber with a filler of rubber wood fibre was investigated.

Mixing was carried out in a miniature twin rotor mixer,

and the tensile properties, water absorption and

morphology of the resultant compounds were examined.

A reduction in water absorption and increase in Young’s

modulus and flexural modulus with increasing degree of

vulcanisation and crosslink density were reported.

Compared to a blend that did not contain sulphur, all

mechanical properties of sulphur containing blends were

enhanced. 11 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.830223

Item 133Antec 2001.Conference proceedings.

Dallas, Texas, 6th-10th May, 2001, paper 609

FOAMING OF RIGID PVC/WOOD-FLOURCOMPOSITES THROUGH A CONTINUOUSEXTRUSION PROCESSMengeloglu F; Matuana L M

Michigan,Technological University

(SPE)

The influence of chemical foaming agent (CFA) type

and concentration, and the use of an all-acrylic

processing aid, on the density and cell morphology of

extrusion foamed poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)/wood flour

composites was investigated. The foaming agents were

modified azodicarbonamide (exothermic) and sodium

bicarbonate (endothermic). The foamed materials were

characterised by density and cell size measurement. The

density was not influenced by the CFA content, whilst

the cell size was dependent upon the CFA type, the

exothermic CFA giving smaller average cell sizes

compared with the endothermic agent. Addition of the

processing aid gave foams with densities comparable to

those of neat rigid PVC, and offered the possibility of

producing rigid PVC/wood-flour composite foams

without the use of CFA. 19 refs.

USA

Accession no.830041



STUDIES ON THE FOAMABILITY OF RIGIDPVC/WOOD-FLOUR COMPOSITESMatuana L M; Mengeloglu F


(SPE)

The influence of crosslinked acrylic and un-crosslinked

chlorinated polyethylene impact modifiers on the

foamability of rigid poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and

rigid PVC/wood flour composites was investigated.

The materials were dry-blended, extruded using a

single-screw extruder, and compression moulded into

panels. Samples were placed in a CO2 atmosphere at

5.52 MPa, and sorption and desorption determined

gravimetrically. Microcellular foamed samples were

prepared by saturating the materials with CO2 at 5.52

MPa for 2 d, then rapidly reducing the pressure and

simultaneously increasing the temperature. The cellular

materials were characterised by density measurement,

and cell size determination by scanning electron

microscopy. The presence of impact modifiers



accelerated the rate of gas loss, which impeded cell

growth. 26 refs.

USA

Accession no.830040


9, No.5, 2001, p.333-8

POLY(BUTYLENE SUCCINATE) COMPOSITESREINFORCED WITH SHORT SISAL FIBRESShibata M; Makino R; Yosomiya R; Takeishi H

Chiba,Institute of Technology

This report describes an investigation into polybutylene

succinate reinforced with sisal fibres for the development

of a fully biodegradable composite with superior

mechanical properties. The influence of fibre length, fibre

content and surface treatment of the fibres on the

mechanical properties of the composite were evaluated.

18 refs.

JAPAN

Accession no.829664

Item 136Journal of Vinyl and Additive Technology

7, No.3, Sept.2001, p.142-8

FOAMING OF RIGID PVC/WOOD-FLOURCOMPOSITES THROUGH A CONTINUOUSEXTRUSION PROCESSMengeloglu F; Matuana L M


The effects of chemical foaming agent(CFA) type

(endothermic versus exothermic) and concentrations as

well as the influence of an all-acrylic processing aid on

the density and cell morphology of extrusion-foamed neat

rigid PVC and rigid PVC/wood flour composites were

studied. Regardless of CFA type, the density reduction of

foamed rigid PVC/wood flour composites was not

influenced by the CFA content. The cell size, however,

was affected by the CFA type, independent of CFA

content. Exothermic foaming agent produced foamed

samples with smaller average cell sizes compared with

those of endothermic counterparts. The experimental

results indicated that the addition of an all-acrylic

processing aid in the formulation of rigid PVC/wood flour

composite foams provided not only the ability to achieve

density comparable with that achieved in the neat rigid

PVC foams but also the potential to produce rigid PVC/

wood flour composite foams without using any chemical

foaming agents. 19 refs.

USA

Accession no.829657


7, No.3, Sept.2001, p.138-41

NEW OPPORTUNITIES WITH WOOD-FLOUR-FOAMED PVCPatterson J

Rohm & Haas Co.

A major disadvantage of composites of wood with

thermoplastics materials is a relatively high specific

gravity compared with those of many natural wood

products. A PVC-wood composite, for example, has a

specific gravity of about 1.3 g/cc. The manufacture of

cellular PVC-based wood composites was studied and the

properties that were achieved as the foam density was

reduced were examined. Overall, even with densities as

low as 0.6 g/cc, the physical properties should be adequate

for many wood replacement applications. The composites

also exhibited the aesthetics of wood and economics that

were favourable compared with those of both rigid and

cellular PVC. 6 refs.

USA

Accession no.829656


7, No.3, Sept.2001, p.134-7

PVC WOOD: A NEW LOOK IN CONSTRUCTIONChetanachan W; Sookkho D; Sutthitavil W;

Chantasatrasamy N; Sinsermsuksakul R

Thai Plastic & Chemicals

The use of PVC wood, which includes PVC foam and

PVC/wood flour composite, as an alternative to wood

and wood-like products is discussed. Compared with

traditional products, the PVC wood is shown to exhibit

improved termite resistance and weathering resistance,

lower moisture absorption and ease of installation. It is

demonstrated that PVC wood can be nailed, screwed,

sawed, cut and bonded like wood by conventional tools

without any special skills being required. The bending

strength of PVC wood is lower, but it can still be used

for decorative applications, i.e. cornices, doors and

siding. 5 refs.

THAILAND

Accession no.829655


20, No.8, 2001, p.885-93

THERMOPLASTIC POLYMERS: OVERVIEWOF SEVERAL PROPERTIES AND THEIRCONSEQUENCES IN FLAX FIBREREINFORCED COMPOSITESVan de Velde K; Kiekens P

Ghent,University

An overview is given of the properties, particularly the

mechanical, physical and thermal properties, of a range

of thermoplastics polymers, the aim being to provide

guidance on selection of a suitable polymer for a specific

application. Many of the properties are shown to be



interrelated and, as a result, some combinations of desired

properties are not possible, but this overview should

provide guidelines to the best compromise between

conflicting property demands. Data are presented mainly

as ranges (in tables) and in graphs for quick comparison

purposes. A specific application, thermoplastic pultrusion

with flax as reinforcement, is also studied. In this

particular case, PP is shown to have the best combination

of properties for use as the composite matrix. 48 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.829640


20, No.8, 2001, p.869-72

IMPACT BEHAVIOR OF SUGARCANEBAGASSE WASTE-EVA COMPOSITESStael G C; Tavares M I B; d’Almeida J R M


Janeiro,Pontificia Universidade Catolica

The impact properties of chopped bagasse-EVA matrix

composites were evaluated and compared with the

behaviour of bagasse-filled PP and PE matrix composites

and wood-based materials. The volume fraction (0.13,

0.30, 0.48, 0.59) and size (less than 3 mm, 3-5 mm and

20-30 mm) of the chopped bagasse used as filler was

varied. The results obtained showed that the incorporation

of bagasse strongly reduced the deformation capacity of

EVA polymer. The reduction of the deformation capacity

of the composites was also inferred by solid-state NMR

relaxation analysis. The impact strength was independent

of the bagasse size, but varied with the volume fraction.

It was shown that the mechanical performance of bagasse-

EVA composites could be tailored, as a function of the

volume fraction, to reproduce the behaviour of wood-

based particle boards. 13 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.829637


81, No.8, 22nd August 2001, p.1971-84

REACTIVE EXTRUSION OFPOLYCAPROLACTONE COMPOUNDSCONTAINING WOOD FLOUR AND LIGNINNitz H; Semke H; Landers R; Mulhaupt R

Albert-Ludwigs,University

Woodflour and lignin were added to biodegradable

polycaprolactone by melt compounding in a Werner &

Pfleiderer twin-screw extruder. Maleic anhydride-grafted

polycaprolactone was used as a compatibiliser. Size

exclusion chromatography and titration were used to

characterise the graft copolymers formed. Mechanical and

biodegradation properties were examined. Some

retardation of the latter was found. 19 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.829463


Manufacturing

32A, No.9, 2001, p.1271-9

NATURAL FIBRE REINFORCED SHEETMOULDING COMPOUNDVan Voorn B; Smit H H G; Sinke R J; de Klerk B

Wageningen,University

A newly developed system enabling utilisation of short

flax fibres for SMC production is described. It is shown

that by using an evenly-distributed layer of short dried

flax fibres, after controlled impregnation and maturation,

a homogeneous flow of the prepreg in the mould is

obtained, and accordingly a flax fibre-reinforced SMC

can be produced. Mechanical data indicate that for

applications designed with respect to stiffness, flax fibre-

reinforced SMC materials compete with glass fibre SMC,

especially when fibre length exceeds 25 mm. 12 refs.



Accession no.829091

Item 143European Design Engineer

Oct.2001, p.17-9

FINDING A NATURAL SOLUTION TO THEPROBLEM OF VEHICLE DISPOSALStevens P

For many years, automotive manufacturers have followed

routes that have led to significant weight reductions, but

now they are having to rethink their strategies due to the

additional requirement to consider the vehicle’s eventual

disposal. It is reported that natural fibres are looking

extremely promising as a replacement for many

‘engineering’ materials.

AUSTRALIA; WORLD

Accession no.828967



NATURAL FIBER REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITES - ANAPPROACH ON THERMOFORMINGPROCESSINGNeto O P R; Giacomini N P

Mercedes-Benz do Brasil; Sao Paulo,University

(SPE)

Jute fibre-reinforced polypropylene (PP) sheet was

produced by calendering a non-woven jute mat of 6 mm

thickness between two sheets of PP of 9 mm thickness.

Composite and pure PP sheets were compared by



measurement of longitudinal and transverse tensile

strength, Young’s modulus, strain, flexural strength, and

density. The composite material had a lower tensile and

flexural strength, and a higher toughness compared with

PP Sheet. The composite density was approximately 21%

lower than that of PP. Sheet containing 50 wt% jute fibre

was successfully vacuum moulded to form automotive

components.

BRAZIL

Accession no.828870



CPI IN-LINE COMPOUNDING SYSTEMSVoelker M J; Weber C D

Composite Products Inc.

(SPE)

A patented in-line compounding system, based on the use

of two screw extruders, for the preparation of long fibre

(glass, carbon or natural fibre) reinforced thermoplastics

is described. One extruder blends the thermoplastic with

other additives and brings the material up to the required

melt temperature, feeding it to the second extruder. This

extruder is fed with the chopped fibre, and has a gentle

screw action to warm the fibre and disperse it in the melt,

minimising fibre size reduction. The second extruder feeds

an accumulator which supplies preforms to the

compression moulding machine. The process offers

advantages of: reduced screw wear; reduced thermal

degradation, as the polymer is only heated once; ability

to use custom formulations; in-line recycling; ability to

produce custom colours; just in time compounding;

reduced inventories; reduced packaging (raw materials

delivered in bulk, using return double packaging); uniform

fibre content; reduced energy consumption; process

versatility; and cost reduction. 7 refs.

USA

Accession no.828832

Item 146Plastiques Flash

No.316, Feb./March 2001, p.38/43

French

EXTRUDING WOOD

Developments in the extrusion of plastics profiles

containing up to 80% or more of wood fibres are reviewed

on the basis of a symposium organised in Vienna by

Cincinnati Extrusion in the summer of 2000. Extruders

developed by Cincinnati Extrusion and Davis-Standard

for the processing of these materials are described.

FASALEX; JRS; PROPOLYTECH; DAVIS-

STANDARD; CINCINNATI EXTRUSION GMBHAUSTRIA; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;

GERMANY; USA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.828691


22, No.4, Aug.2001, p.568-78

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES ANDMORPHOLOGY OF FLAX FIBER REINFORCEDMELAMINE-FORMALDEHYDE COMPOSITESHagstrand P O; Oksman K

Chalmers,University of Technology; Swedish Institute

of Composites

Non-woven flax fibre mat-reinforced and particulate-

filled melamine-formaldehyde(MF) composites

processed by compression moulding were studied and

compared with a similar MF composite reinforced with

glass fibres. Using flax instead of glass fibres had a rather

negative effect on tensile performance. The difference

was, however, relatively small and, if density and

material cost were taken into account, flax fibres became

competitive. Tensile damage was quantified from the

stiffness reduction during cyclic straining. Compared

with glass fibres, flax fibres generated a material with a

significantly lower damage rate. From SEM, it was found

that microcracking took place mainly in the fibre cell

walls and not at the fibre-matrix interface. This indicated

that the fibre-matrix adhesion was high. The materials

were also compared using dynamic mechanical thermal

analysis and water absorption measurements. 37 refs.

EUROPEAN UNION; SCANDINAVIA; SWEDEN; WESTERN

EUROPE

Accession no.827668


22, No.4, Aug.2001, p.518-27

JUTE FELT COMPOSITE FROM LIGNINMODIFIED PHENOLIC RESINSarkar S; Adhikari B

Indian Institute of Technology

Raw and dewaxed jute felt composites were prepared with

resol- and lignin-modified phenol-formaldehyde resin. Four

different types of lignin-modified resins were used by

replacing phenol with lignin. The lignin-modified resins were

prepared from purified lignin obtained from paper industry

waste black liquor. IR spectroscopic studies of jute felts and

composites were carried out to investigate the bonding

between jute and resin. The thermal stability of the

composites was studied by DSC and TGA. It was found that

the lignin resin jute composite was thermally more stable

than the resol composite. X-ray diffraction of jute felt and

composite showed that the crystallinity of the jute fibre

increased after composite preparation. The lignin resin

composites were tested for water absorption and thickness

swelling and it was found that the results were comparable

with those of resol jute composite. Composites prepared from

lignin phenol-formaldehyde resin with up to 50% phenol

replacement showed 75% TS retention. 73 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.827664



Item 149International Polymer Processing

16, No.2, June 2001, p.100-7

TWIN SCREW COMPOUNDING OF PE-HDWOOD FLOUR COMPOSITESWang Y; Chan H C; Lai S M; Shen H F

Tunghai,University; Chinese Culture University;

Taichung,Plastics Industry Development Centre

The compounding of wood flour-filled PE was

examined with reference to co-rotating twin-screw

extruders from two manufacturers. An acrylic acid-

grafted PE copolymer was used as the compatibiliser

in HDPE-wood flour composite system. Particular

attention was paid to the compounding of the heat- and

shear-sensitive wood flour. The relevant screw

configuration was found to consist of short mixing

length with low intensity of shearing. A suitable

combination of process variables was necessary for

limiting the thermal degradation of the wood filler, but

tensile properties of the composites were not much

affected. Furthermore, the allowable range of

processing temp. was limited and there was an upper

limit of rotating speed and a lower limit of throughput

rate within which the darkening of wood filler in the

composites was acceptable. The processing window

was also experimentally constructed in terms of the

degree of darkening of wood composites. 24 refs.

TAIWAN

Accession no.827621



WOOD FILLED HIGH CRYSTALLINITYPOLYPROPYLENEJacoby P; Sullivan R; Crostic W

BP Amoco Polymers

(SPE)

The properties of wood flour-filled polyethylenes (PE)

and polypropylenes (PP) were compared. The materials

tested were: PP homopolymer, high crystallinity PP, an

impact propylene copolymer, high density PE, and low

density PE, containing 20-60% pine wood flour. Maleated

PP or maleated PE were evaluated as compatibilisers in

some blends. Test samples were prepared by injection

moulding, and tensile strength measured at 23 C and 60

C, and flexural and impact strengths measured at ambient

temperatures. Tensile creep was measured at 23 C and 7

MPa, and at 60 C and 3.5 MPa. Samples were also tested

following immersion in water for various times up to 30

days. The PPs exhibited significantly higher stiffness,

strength and high temperature performance compared

with the PE-based materials, the high crystallinity PP

having the best performance. 2 refs.

USA

Accession no.827222



EFFECTIVENESS OF FUNCTIONALIZEDPOLYOLEFINS AS COMPATIBILIZERS FORPOLYETHYLENE/WOOD FLOUR COMPOSITESLai S-M; Yeh F-C; Yeh Wang; Chan H-C; Shen H-F;

Hsiao Y-K



(SPE)

High density polyethylene was compounded with wood

flour using a self-wiping, co-rotating twin-screw extruder,

and various maleic anhydride (MA)-grafted polyolefins

were evaluated as compatibilisers. The MA-grafted

polymers were: linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE-

g-MA), styrene-ethylene butylene-styrene block

copolymer (SEBS-g-MA), and polypropylene (PP-g-

MA). Tensile and impact test samples were prepared by

injection moulding, and the morphology of the fracture

surfaces was studied by scanning electron microscopy.

The highest tensile and impact strengths were achieved

using LLDPE-g-MA, with lower strength gains coming

from the use of SEBS-g-MA. Enhanced compatibility was

attributed to the compatibility between the HDPE matrix

and the LLDPE backbone of the compatibiliser, and with

enhanced interfacial bonding resulting from the chemical

reaction between MA and hydroxyl groups of the wood

flour. The notched impact strength decreased with

increasing PP-g-MA content. 10 refs.

TAIWAN

Accession no.827221



EFFECT OF COMPOUNDING CONDITIONS ONTHE WOOD FLOUR/POLYETHYLENECOMPOSITES IN TWIN-SCREW EXTRUDERSYeh Wang; Chan H-C; Lai S-M; Shen H-F; Hsiao Y-K



(SPE)

The influence of processing parameters on the properties

of wood flour-filled polyethylene, compounded using co-

rotating twin-screw extruders was investigated. Polymer

pellets and poly(ethylene-co-acrylic acid) compatibiliser

were blended prior to feeding into the extruder. The wood

flour was introduced at the mid-extruder position to

minimise thermal and shear degradation. Two extruders

were used, the experimental variables being: screw

configuration, throughput rate, screw speed, and barrel

temperature profile. The prepared materials were

characterised by measurement of tensile strength and

tensile modulus, determination of fibre length reduction,

assessment of bonding by scanning electron microscopy,

and determination of darkening due to thermal



degradation. The appropriate screw configuration

consisted of short mixing elements with low intensity

shearing. A suitable combination of processing variables,

including screw speed, throughput rate, and barrel

temperatures were necessary to limit thermal degradation

and darkening of the filler. The degradation caused only

a minor reduction in tensile properties. 12 refs.

TAIWAN

Accession no.827220



DEVELOPMENT OF AN EXTRUSION SYSTEMFOR FINE-CELLED FOAMING OF WOOD-FIBER COMPOSITES USING A PHYSICALBLOWING AGENTZhang H; Rizvi G M; Lin W S; Guo G; Park C B

Toronto,University

(SPE)

The use of wood fibre filler, combined with a cellular

structure, to reduce cost and increase the mechanical

properties of thermoplastics was investigated. An

extrusion system was developed for material preparation,

consisting of two extruders working in tandem. In the

first extruder the plastic and wood fibre were

compounded, moisture being vented in vapour form at

the junction between the two extruders. In the second

extruder the dry material was blended with a physical

blowing agent, passed through a static mixer, then

homogeneously cooled to enhanced melt strength, before

extrusion through a nucleation die with cooling to freeze

the surface layer of the extrudate. Trials were conducted

using high density polyethylene, softwood fibre (50% less

than 125 micrometre, with an addition of 0-40 wt%),

modified polyethylene coupling agent, CO2 physical

blowing agent (0-4 wt%) and talc as the nucleating agent.

The system operated successfully, attributed to the

combination of uniform mixing, improved bonding and

effective moisture removal. The cell morphology was

dependent upon the system configuration, and was

strongly influenced by the coupling agent. Increasing the

CO2 content had little effect on the cell morphology, but

increased the volume expansion ratio and decreased the

minimum foaming temperature. Reducing the fibre

content enhanced the cell morphology. 58 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.827190


61, No.10, 2001, p.1437-47

EFFECT OF FIBER TREATMENT ON THEMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OFUNIDIRECTIONAL SISAL-REINFORCEDEPOXY COMPOSITES

Rng M Z; Zhang M Q; Liu Y; Yang G C; Zeng H M

Guangzhou,Zhongshan University

Details are given of the effect of fibre treatment on the

mechanical properties of unidirectional sisal-reinforced

epoxy resins. Treatments including alkalisation,

acetylisation, cyanoethylation, the use of silane

coupling agent, and heating were used to modify the

fibre surfaces and internal structures. Characterisation

was undertaken using FTIR, X-ray diffraction, and

tensile tests. 19 refs.

CHINA

Accession no.826932


No.45, May/June 2001, p.24

French; English

NATURAL-FIBRE-REINFORCED PU FOR SOFTTRIM PARTS

Using natural fibre mats as reinforcement for PUR

systems makes it possible to reduce both the weight of

parts and the cost of manufacturing. In the automotive

industry, side doors along with their soft trim

components are considered as safety parts. For these

trim parts, Bayer has developed new PU systems that

are marketed under the Baypreg brand name. Hennecke

provides complete custom-built production facilities

under the name NafpurTec.

BAYER AG; HENNECKE GMBHEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.826731


No.45, May/June 2001, p.22-3

French; English

SIGNIFICANT PENETRATION INTO THEAUTOMOTIVE MARKET

Today, several types of plant fibre are in use in the

automotive industry including flax, hemp, jute, sisal,

kenaf, wood or grain-based products. The most

commonly used thermoplastic binder is PP, although

many PU applications are emerging. Natural materials

offer several advantages such as no net carbon dioxide

release, 40% less weight compared with glass fibre and

production consumes one-fifth the energy of glass fibre

production. DaimlerChrysler will fit the new Mercedes-

Benz Travego travel coach with a natural fibre-

reinforced engine and transmission casing as standard

equipment, the first natural fibre-reinforced vehicle

exterior component to go into series production.

WORLD

Accession no.826730



Item 157BLOWING AGENTS AND FOAMING PROCESSES

CONFERENCE 2001. Proceedings from a conference

held Frankfurt, 13th-14th March 2001.

Shawbury, Rapra Technology Ltd., 2001, Paper 2. 012

ADVANTAGES OF THE USE OF CHEMICALFOAMING AGENTS IN WOOD-PLASTICCOMPOSITESLuebke G

Clariant Masterbatch GmbH & Co.OHG

(Rapra Technology Ltd.)

The growing market for wood-plastic composites is

discussed with some statistics for the North American

market. The benefits in using chemical foaming agents in

wood-plastic composites are examined, with particular

reference to the following points: material and cost savings,

consistent process control, nucleating effects which can

solve the moisture problems, improvement of mechanical

properties, and improved compatibility between

hydrophilic wood and hydrophobic plastics. 12 refs.


NORTH AMERICA; UK; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.826073


20, No.11, 1st June 2001, p.1017-9

FLEXURAL MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OFPIASSAVA FIBERS (ATTALEA FUNIFERA) -RESIN MATRIX COMPOSITESAquino R C M P; D’Almeida J R M; Monteiro S N

Norte Fluminense,Universidade Estadual; Rio de


Fibres from the piassava palm (attalea funifera) were

evaluated as suitable reinforcement for orthophthalic ester

resin. Waste fibres from broom production were collected

and composites fabricated by moulding and curing. Fibre

loading varied from 30-50% by mass. The samples were

subjected to flexural testing and their stress at rupture

shown to increase with fibre loading. The flexural strength

was comparable to other natural fibre-reinforced


BRAZIL

Accession no.825922



PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION INTO THEUSE OF WOOD FIBERS AS A FILLER IN THEROTATIONAL MOLDING OF POLYETHYLENEMcDowell G W G; Orr J F; Kissick J; Crawford R J

Belfast,Queen’s University; Auckland,University

(SPE)

The rotational moulding of polyethylene reinforced with

2.5-60 wt% wood fibre (waste sawdust and very fine wood

flour) was investigated. Moulding behaviour was

assessed, and the appearance and colour, reinforcement

distribution, and impact and flexural strength were

determined after moulding. Extended moulding times

resulted in surface burning. The reinforcement in the wood

flour mouldings was more uniformly distributed and

wetted, resulting in superior mechanical properties

compared with the sawdust-reinforced mouldings. Impact

strength decreased with increasing filler content. Heating

times during moulding increased with increasing filler

content, whilst cooling time decreased. This was attributed

to the reduced shrinkage enhancing contact with the mould

wall, so improving heat transfer. 7 refs.

EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; NEW

ZEALAND; UK; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.825349


7, No.2, June 2001, p.67-75

MICROCELLULAR FOAMING OF IMPACT-MODIFIED RIGID PVC/WOOD-FLOURCOMPOSITESMatuana L M; Mengeloglu F


Solid-state microcellular foaming technology was used

to investigate the influence of impact modification on the

foamability of neat rigid PVC and rigid PVC/wood flour

composite samples. The effects of impact modifier types

(crosslinked versus uncrosslinked) and concentrations on

the void fraction of foamed samples were examined. The

influence of impact modification on the sorption

behaviour of carbon dioxide in the samples was also

studied. The experimental results indicated that impact

modification accelerated the rate of gas loss during the

foaming process, which impeded the growth of nucleated

cells, independent of modifier type. As a result of this

accelerated gas loss, impact modification inhibited the

potential of producing foamed samples with void fractions

similar to those achieved in unmodified samples. 26 refs.

USA

Accession no.825288


48, No.4, 2001, p.461-75

WHITE RICE HUSK ASH FILLED NATURALRUBBER/LINEAR LOW DENSITYPOLYETHYLENE BLENDSIsmail H; Nizam J M; Khalil H P S A


NR/LLDPE blends were prepared using an internal mixer

at 150C and a rotor speed of 55 rpm. The TS, tensile

modulus and hardness increased with increasing LLDPE

content, while EB and mass swelling showed decreasing

trend. With 30/70 w/w NR/LLDPE blends, the increasing



white rice husk ash loading also increased the tensile

modulus and hardness, but reduced the TS, EB and mass

swelling. The poor TS performance was attributed to the

poor filler-matrix interaction or compatibility and poor

dispersion of filler in NR/LLDPE blends. 22 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.825028


40, No.4, 2001, p.519-38

WHITE RICE HUSK ASH FILLED ETHYLENE-PROPYLENE-DIENE TERPOLYMER/POLYPROPYLENE BLENDS: EFFECT OFDYNAMIC VULCANIZATION AND FILLERLOADINGSiriwardena S; Ismail H; Ishiaku U S


White rusk husk ash was incorporated into elastomer-rich

EPDM/PP blends and the effect of filler loading (0 to 60

pph) and dynamic vulcanisation were investigated using

mechanical properties and processability as indicators.

Mixing rheology of the blends based on Brabender torque

was also studied. The results obtained are presented and

discussed with particular reference to mixing torque,

stress-strain properties, TS, EB, stress at yield, moduli at

different strains, tear strength, compression set, hardness,

hysteresis, processability and recyclability. 26 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.825002


40, No.4, 2001, p.463-78

EFFECTS OF A COMPATIBILIZER AND ASILANE COUPLING AGENT ON THEMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF WHITE RICEHUSK ASH FILLED POLYPROPYLENE/NATURAL RUBBER BLENDIsmail H; Mega L


The effects of a compatibiliser, poly(propylene-ethylene

acrylic acid)(PPEAA), and a silane coupling agent, 3-

aminopropyltriethoxysilane(3-APE), on the properties of

white rice husk ash(WRHA)-filled PP/NR blends were

investigated. The incorporation of WRHA into PP/NR

blends improved tensile modulus but decreased TS, EB

and stress at yield. The improvement was due to better

filler dispersion and better filler-matrix interaction

through the surface modification of filler and matrix.

Water absorption increased with increasing filler loading,

but the presence of 3-APE and PPEAA affected the water

resistance of the composites. 18 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.824998

Item 164UTECH 2000. Proceedings of a conference held The

Hague, Netherlands, 28th-30th March 2000.

London, 2000, Automotive Session, Paper 3, pp.6, 012

INTERIOR TRIM PARTS FROM NATURALFIBRE MAT AND GLASS FIBRETECHNOLOGIESKleinholz R

Johnson Controls

(Crain Communications Ltd.; European Isocyanate

Producers’ Association)

Two new materials and processes for the manufacture of

door panels for the Daimler Chrysler class S and class

CLK cars are evaluated and compared. The materials are

Fibropur, a natural fibre mat with a PU binder, produced

by compression moulding, and LFI (Long Fibre Injection),

a PU rigid foam with cut glass fibres made by a foaming

technique. Reasons for the development of these materials

are outlined, the processes are described and the properties

of the two materials compared.



Accession no.824804

Item 165Molecular Crystals & Liquid Crystals

Vol.353, 2000, p.95-108

COMPOSITES MADE FROMLIGNOCELLULOSICS AND THERMOSETPOLYMERSAramguren M I; Marcovich N E; Reboredo M M

INTEMA

Preparation and testing of composites from a styrene/

unsaturated polyester thermoset matrix and wood flours

from different wood species was carried out. Studies were

carried out on Pine (Pino Eliottis), eucaliptus (Eucaliptus

Saligna) and marmelero (Ruprechia Laviflora), a softwood

and two semi-hard woods, respectively. The particles were

used untreated and chemically modified with maleic

anhydride. For the characterisation of untreated and treated

flours, thermogravimetric analysis and analytical

techniques were utilised. Dispersion of the fibrous particles,

in addition to maximum fibre concentration (accompanied

by complete wetting of the wood fibres) was dependent on

the treatment and on the wood species utilised. Bending

and compression tests suggested some improvement in the

performance of the composites, if the wood flour was

previously esterified. Changes in the fracture surfaces due

to maleic anhydride treatment of the fibres were observed

using scanning electron microscopy. 12 refs.

ARGENTINA

Accession no.824162


Vol.353, 2000, p.85-94



WEATHERING PERFORMANCE OF PLANT-FIBER/THERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITESRowell R M; Lange S E; Jacobson R E

US,Dept.of Agriculture,Forest Products Laboratory

Natural fibre/thermoplastic composites were produced

from polypropylene and aspen fibre. A number of

different levels of aspen fibre (30-60% by weight) were

used with and without the addition of a compatibiliser

(maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene, MAPP).

Tests were carried out on these composites for strength

properties, exposure to boiling and cyclic liquid water

and oven drying tests, and evaluated in an accelerated

weathering test for 2000 hours. As the level of fibre

rises without MAPP, flexural strength, flexural

modulus, tensile strength, and tensile modulus

increases but notched and unnotched impact strength

decreases compared with pure polypropylene. The

presence of MAPP has a very large positive impact on

flexural strength, flexural modulus, tensile strength,

and tensile modulus compared with composites made

without MAPP. As the level of fibre increased in the

composites, the rate and extent of thickness swelling

and moisture sorption rose compared with pure

polypropylene. The presence of MAPP lowered the

degree of swelling and moisture pickup. Under

accelerated weathering conditions (water sprayed for

18 minutes followed by 102 minutes without water

spray of UV radiation produced by a 6500 watt xenon

arc light source), weathering of composites was limited

to the outer 0.5 mm of the surface. Weathering gave

rise to the development of a white chalky surface layer

which began at about 150-200 hours of weathering.

Following 2000 hours of accelerated weathering,

weight loss increased with increasing fibre content and

there was more weight loss in samples containing

MAPP compared with samples without added MAPP.

After 2000 hours of weathering and scraping off the

chalky white layer, weight loss was highest in samples

containing no fibre. 5 refs.

USA

Accession no.824161


Vol.354, 2001, p.373-80

FLAMMABILITY OF COMPOSITES BASED ONPOLYPROPYLENE AND FLAX FIBERSHelwig M; Paukszta D

Poznan,University of Technology

Details are given of the flammability of PP composites

with long flax fibres obtained by compression moulding.

Heat release rate and mass loss rate curves were

determined. Mechanisms of thermal decomposition and

combustion are discussed. 11 refs.


Accession no.823855


15, No.6, 2001, p.633-52

INTERFACIAL ADHESION IN SISAL FIBRE/SBRCOMPOSITES: INVESTIGATION BY THERESTRICTED EQUILIBRIUM SWELLINGTECHNIQUEKumar R P; Thomas S


The degree of interfacial adhesion at the fibre-matrix

interface of short sisal fibre-reinforced SBR composites

was investigated using the restricted equilibrium swelling

method. The swelling behaviour of untreated composites

and composites treated with a two-component dry bonding

agent consisting of hexamethylene tetramine and

resorcinol was examined in a series of aromatic solvents,

including benzene, toluene and xylene. The influence of

fibre loading on the swelling behaviour of the composites

and the effects of fibre orientation, fibre loading, bonding

agent and variations in dimensions were evaluated and

the mechanical properties of the composites determined.

30 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.823098


Manufacturing

32A, No.8, 2001, p.1105-15

EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONSON MECHANICAL AND PHYSICALPROPERTIES OF FLAX FIBRESStamboulis A; Baillie C A; Peijs T

Imperial College of Science,Technology & Medicine;

London,University,Queen Mary & Westfield College

The environmental degradation behaviour and mechanical

properties of Duralin treated flax fibres were investigated

by moisture absorption measurements and tensile testing

and the results compared with those for untreated fibres.

Electrochemical experiments were also carried out to

evaluate the effect of Duralin treatment on the moisture

uptake of the flax fibres. The effects of moisture

absorption on mechanical properties and zeta potential

measurements are discussed as is the pH dependence of

the zeta potential measurements. 22 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.823014


61, No.9, 2001, p.1303-10

INFLUENCE OF FIBRE TREATMENT ON THEPERFORMANCE OF COIR-POLYESTERCOMPOSITESRout J; Misra M; Tripathy S S; Nayak S K; Mohanty A K





Coir fibres were subjected to various surface treatments

including alkali treatment, bleaching and vinyl grafting

in an attempt to improve their adhesion to polyester matrix

resins. Mechanical properties, such as tensile strength,

flexural strength and impact strength, of composites

containing the treated fibres were determined and fibre-

matrix adhesion was examined by scanning electron

microscopy. The effect of fibre treatment on water

absorption of the untreated and treated coir fibre

composites and coir/glass hybrid composites was also

investigated. 16 refs.

INDIA; USA

Accession no.822965


61, No.9, 2001, p.1175-88

STRESS-RELAXATION BEHAVIOUR INCOMPOSITES BASED ON SHORT OIL-PALMFIBRES AND PHENOL-FORMALDEHYDERESINSreekala M S; Kumaran M G; Joseph R; Thomas S

India,Rubber Research Institute; Mahatma

Gandhi,University

A study was made of the stress relaxation of phenol-formaldehyde resins reinforced with short oil-palm empty

fruit bunch fibres and hybrid composites composed of

oil-palm fibres and glass fibres. The effects of fibre

loading, fibre treatment, hybridisation with glass fibres,

physical ageing and strain level on stress relaxation

behaviour were examined and the rate of relaxation at

different time intervals was calculated in order to explain

gradual changes in relaxation mechanisms. 32 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.822959


Vol. 169, May 2001, p.211-22

NEW WATERBORNE EPOXY COATINGSBASED ON CELLULOSE NANOFILLERSRuiz M M; Cavaille J Y; Dufresne A; Graillat C;

Gerard J-F

CNRS-INSA; Fourier J.,Universite; LCPP-CNRS;

laboratoire des Materiaux Macromoleculaires

Nanocomposites based on a waterborne epoxy emulsion

and a suspension of cellulose crystallites were prepared

by film casting in order to obtain coatings which displayed

both flexibility and stiffness. Typical processing problems

associated with this type of composite are related to high

viscosity values of filled polymers in the molten state,

the incompatibility between hydrophobic matrices and

hydrophilic cellulose, and the formation of hydrogen

bonds between cellulose of this type in an epoxy matrix.

This work aims to solve some of these problems by careful

selection of the components of the coatings. The use of

cellulose whiskers are demonstrated to produce an

improvement of the composite modulus in the rubbery

state of the matrix, which is attributed to the formation of

a network of whiskers from the hydrogen bonds existing

between the cellulose whiskers. 25 refs.

EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.822664


81, No.3, 18th July 2001, p.742-53

HYGROTHERMAL AGING AND TENSILEBEHAVIOR OF INJECTION MOLDED RICEHUSK-FILLED POLYPROPYLENECOMPOSITESIshak Z A M; Yow B N; Ng B L; Khalil H P S A;

Rozman L C


Rice husks are a widely available low cost waste product

of rice production and their potential suitability for

reinforcing polypropylene was studied. The effect of filler

volume fraction on tensile properties and kinetics of

hygrothermal ageing were evaluated using injection

moulded test pieces. It was found that the rice hush/

polypropylene compounds had improved tensile modulus

and strength but lower elongation and energy to break.

Moisture adsorption increased with filler volume and

ageing temperature and physical properties decreased

permanently with ageing time. Scanning electron

microscopy, used to investigate the failure mode, indicated

that reinforcement agglomeration had a detrimental

influence on the ultimate performance. Complete details

of the test procedures and results are given and the results

fully discussed. 24 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.821957

Item 174Kautchuk und Gummi Kunststoffe

54, No.5, 2001, p.242-9

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES AND SWELLING OFNATURAL RUBBER COMPOUNDSCONTAINING RICE HUSK ASHda Costa H M; Nunes R C R; Visconte L L Y;

Furtado C R G


Janeiro,Universidade do Estado

The use of rice husk ash, as-received (RHA) or milled

(MHA), as a new type of filler for NR was investigated.

The physical properties of the NR vulcanisates involved

tensile, tear and abrasion resistance, hardness and resilience

were tested. The interaction between RHA and NR was

investigated by swelling in an organic solvent. The effect



of the coupling agent bis(3-triethoxysilylpropyl)

tetrasulphane on the curing and physical properties of the

vulcanisates was investigated. The presence of the silane

coupling agent did not bring about the expected increase

in properties, but MHA exhibited better overall vulcanisate

properties when compared with RHA, although still inferior

to commercial fillers such as precipitated silica (Zeosil-

175) and carbon black (N762), especially with regard to

TS and abrasion resistance. 24 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.820511

Item 175New Scientist

169, No.2274, 20th Jan.2001, p.1-4(insert)

PERFECT PARTNERSHIPSMatthams T

Cambridge,University

This detailed article provides us with an in-depth

introduction to the world of composites, explaining how

materials which are weak and brittle can be turned into

tough, strong ones by selecting the right combination of

metals, fibres, plastics, and ceramics. Section headings

include: making the most of composites, controlling the

composite, ceramics take the heat, and learning from

nature. Two smaller insert articles are also included,

entitled “The right stuff” which discusses all kinds of

fibres, and “It’s a tough old world” which points out

composites in the natural world.

BOEING; NASA; DAIMLERCHRYSLEREUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; SOUTH EAST

ASIA; UK; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.818337

Item 176British Plastics and Rubber

Nov.2000, p.13

“PLASTIC WOOD” EXTRUSION DIRECT FROMTHE COMPOUNDER

This small article highlights a new direct compounding

extrusion line for synthetic wood, from B&P of America,

which consists of a feeder for the wood, a twin-screw

compounder, a melt extruder with degassing unit, a melt

pump or discharge extruder, and die and downstream

equipment. Brief details are given.

B & P OF AMERICA; UNIPLEX MACHINERY

SALES; WTL INTERNATIONALEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK; USA;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.818300

Item 177Macromolecular Materials and Engineering

Vol.286, No.4, 30th April 2001, p.237-42

INFLUENCE OF FIBRE AND MATRIXMODIFICATIONS ON MECHANICAL AND

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF FLAX FIBREREINFORCED POLY(PROPYLENE)Van de Velde K; Kiekens P

Ghent,University

Several types of flax were used as reinforcement in PP-

based unidirectional composites. These flax types

included non-treated as well as treated (boiled) samples.

Two types of PP were used as matrix, i.e. non-modified

PP and maleic anhydride-modified PP. The influence of

both fibre and matrix modification was studied through

mechanical (flexural) and physical (density, sorption and

drying) tests. The combination of boiled flax with the

modified PP yielded the best mechanical properties,

combined with good physical properties. A 100% stress

transfer between fibre and matrix could be calculated in

this optimised case. Interlaminar shear strength tests were

conducted in order to confirm this improved fibre-matrix

adhesion. 13 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.817757


20, No.5, 28th Feb.2001, p.477-9

IMPACT DAMAGE CLASSIFICATION ON JUTEREINFORCED COMPOSITESSantulli C; Cantwell WJ

Liverpool,University

Woven jute fibre-reinforced polyester resin laminates were

subjected to impact testing with energy up to 20J and impact

velocity up to 2 m/s. Some samples were then subjected to

tensile testing to failure, which occurred by matrix cracking

at the impact point but not delamination. Other damaged

samples were subjected to fatigue testing and the damaged

zones examined by optical microscopy. 7 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.817307

Item 179Cellular Polymers

20, No.2, 2001, p.115-30

FACTORIAL DESIGN APPLIED TO THEEXTRUSION FOAMING OF POLYPROPYLENE/WOOD-FLOUR COMPOSITESMatuana L; Li Q


A factorial design was performed to determine the

statistical effects of material compositions and extrusion

processing variables on the foamability of PP/wood flour

composites. The effect of variables on the void fraction

of foamed composite samples were analysed using Design

Expert software. 25 refs.

USA

Accession no.817289



Item 180Popular Plastics and Packaging

46, No.5, May 2001, p.25-6

ALL STRENGTH NO BULK: NEW PROCESSESAND FIBRES FOR REINFORCED PLASTICS

The European market for GRP increased by nearly 6% in

1999 to some 950,000 tonnes. It is estimated that

production volume for 2000 will have reached well over

one million tonnes for the first time. The TCP centrifugal

casting process has been shown to deliver end products

that meet narrow tolerance specifications at high fibre

volume fractions. Trial runs to date have used PP and

polyamide as the matrix, plus glass and carbon fibres as

the reinforcing materials. A fibre volume fraction of 50-

60% and non-porous laminates were achieved. The SLI

(single line injection) process is primarily a combination

of the RTM method and select elements of prepreg

technology. The use of natural fibres as a reinforcing

material in composite structures is discussed. Vehicle door

panels have been produced using a combination of natural

fibres and PU.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.816591


40, No.2, 2001, p.205-15

ANALYSIS OF COST AND FLEXURALSTRENGTH PERFORMANCE OF NATURALFIBRE-POLYESTER COMPOSITESd’Almeida J R M

Rio de Janeiro,Pontificia Universidade Catolica

Natural fibre reinforced polyester matrix composite

materials are evaluated both for strength performance and

cost. The flexural strength of composites fabricated with

untreated chopped natural fibres is comparable only to

the performance of low-strength wooden agglomerates

and plywood. Nevertheless, it is shown that on a cost basis

the composites fabricated with high-strength natural fibres

can even compete with glass fibre-mat polyester matrix

composites. The primary constraint is to maintain

consistently low cost of the fibres. 28 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.816115


40, No.2, 2001, p.103-15

EFFECT OF OIL EXTRACTION OF THE OILPALM EMPTY FRUIT BUNCH ON THEMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OFPOLYPROPYLENE-OIL PALM EMPTY FRUITBUNCH-GLASS FIBRE HYBRID COMPOSITESRozman H D; Tay G S; Kumar R N; Abusainah A;

Ismail H; Ishak Z A M


Hybrid composites are made using oil palm empty fruit

bunch (EFB) and glass fibres (GF) as reinforcing agents

in PP matrix. Three types of coupling agents are

incorporated in the composites, i.e. maleic anhydride-

modified PP (Epolene E-43), polymethylene (polyphenyl

isocyanate) (PMPPIC) and 3-(trimethoxysilyl)-propyl

methacrylate. Comparisons are made between composites

with oil-extracted (extracted with toluene, acetone and

ethanol) and unextracted EFB. It is shown that composites

with oil-extracted EFB produce significantly higher

flexural and tensile strength and toughness than those

without extraction. Scanning electron microscopy reveals

that oil extraction results in the formation of continuous

interfacial region between EFB and PP matrix, and an

increase in the ductility of the matrix. 12 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.816108


91, No.4, April 2001, p.23-4

REPLACING ESTABLISHED PLASTICS .... BYPP/FLAX COMPOUNDS IMPACT-MODIFIEDWITH PET FIBRESPflug G; Reinemann S

Thueringisches Institut fuer Textil- & Kunststoff-

Forschung eV

Research undertaken at the Thuringian Institute for Textile

and Polymer Research (TITK) into the production of PP/

flax compounds impact modified with PETP fibres, is

described. The toughness of PP/flax and PP/flax/

wollastonite composites can be increased using a hybrid

construction involving ductile high-strength PETP fibres.

The flax and the PETP component serving as the impact

modifier were incorporated in the form of chopped fibres.

Studies were performed using a co-rotating twin-screw

extruder. (Article translated from Kunststoffe 91 (2001)

4, pp.71-2)


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.815265


80, No.11, 13th June 2001, p.1943-50

PHOTOAGING AND STABILIZATION OF RIGIDPVC/WOOD-FIBER COMPOSITESMatuana L M; Kamdem D P; Jun Zhang

Michigan,Technological University; Michigan,State

University

Composite samples were prepared by dry blending

poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), wood fibre and other

processing additives in a high-intensity mixer, followed

by extrusion and compression moulding. Both

unpigmented and rutile-pigmented samples were



produced and subjected to accelerated UV testing.

Photoageing was studied by visual assessment of surface

roughness, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and

measurements of contact angle and colour. The wood

fibres sensitised the PVC matrix to UV irradiation,

accelerating the degradation. The light stability was

enhanced by the addition of rutile. 30 refs.

USA

Accession no.814346


80, No.14, 28th June 2001, p.2833-41

CONIFER FIBERS AS REINFORCINGMATERIALS FOR POLYPROPYLENE-BASEDCOMPOSITESChengzhi Chuai; Almdal K; Poulsen L; Plackett D

Tianjin,Institute of Light Industry; Riso National

Laboratory; Lyngby,Technical University

The thermal and mechanical properties of polypropylene

(PP), reinforced with conifer fibres (waste from bleached

wood pulp board) were investigated. The fibre

compatibility was enhanced by either grafting with

maleated PP (MAPP), treatment by MAPP additions, or

by mixing with ethylene-propylene-diene (EPDM)

terpolymer. MAPP grafting and MAPP treating gave

greater improvements in thermal properties,

processability, and tensile strength compared with EPDM

treatment, whilst EPDM gave greater improvements in

impact and tensile properties. 12 refs.

CHINA; DENMARK; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN

UNION; SCANDINAVIA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.813725

Item 186Materials Today

3, No.3, 2000, p.9

AEROSPACE APPROVALS SOON FORNATURAL FIBRE COMPOSITES

Natural fibre composites of thermoplastics and

thermosets, which have already been embraced by car

manufacturers, are shortly to be approved by the US

Federal Aviation Authority and the UK Civil Aviation

Authority for aerospace applications, it is announced in

this short article. Brief details are given.

US,FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION;

UK,CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY; KAFUS

BIOCOMPOSITES INC.; OWENS CORNINGEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK; USA;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.813376


Manufacturing

32A, No.5, 2001, p.619-29

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF WOODFLAKE-POLYETHYLENE COMPOSITES. I.EFFECTS OF PROCESSING METHODS ANDMATRIX MELT FLOW BEHAVIOURBalasuriya P W; Ye L; Mai Y-W

Sydney,University

The structure-property relationship of wood flake-HDPE

composites is studied in relation to the matrix agent melt

flow behaviour and processing technique. Flake

distribution and flake wetting are optimised to obtain

acceptable mechanical properties in these composites

using two processing techniques, namely twin-screw

compounding and mechanical blending. The

microstructure of the composites reveals that the twin-

screw compounded composites based on medium melt

flow index (MMFI) HDPE always achieves better flake

wetting and distribution, and therefore has higher

mechanical properties, than those mechanically blended

composites or twin-screw compounded composites with

low MFI (LMFI) HDPE. For 50:50 wt.% composites, the

overall flake wetting, depending on processing technique

and matrix flow behaviour, is ranked as compounded

MMFI, compounded LMFI, blended MMFI, blended

LMFI. However, uniformity of flake distribution of the

composites follows a somewhat different pattern, i.e.

compounded MMFI, blended MMFI, compounded LMFI,

blended LMFI. Evidence shows that medium MFI HDPE

penetrates into lumens of wood fibres in wood flakes.

This phenomenon, combined with flake wetting and flake

distribution, has a profound effect on mechanical

properties, in particular impact strength. 17 refs.

AUSTRALIA

Accession no.811183


Manufacturing

32A, Nos.3-4, 2001, p.525-43

STUDY OF TRANSCRYSTALLINITY AND ITSEFFECT ON THE INTERFACE IN FLAX FIBREREINFORCED COMPOSITE MATERIALSZafeiropoulos N E; Baillie C A; Matthews F L

London,University,Imperial College

Four different types of flax fibres, green flax, dew-retted

flax, Duralin-treated flax and stearic acid-treated flax,

were used with two different isotactic PP matrices. The

effect of various conditions, such as the crystallisation

temp., time and cooling rates, on the formation of

transcrystallinity was investigated using hot stage optical

microscopy. DSC was used to investigate the inner

morphology of the transcrystalline layer. SEM and X-

ray diffraction were used in an attempt to identify the

origin of the transcrystalline layer in relation to the

structural characteristics of the fibres. Finally, the effect

of the transcrystalline layer on the mechanical properties

of the interface was studied using the single fibre

fragmentation test. It was found that the interfacial



adhesion was improved by the presence of a

transcrystalline layer. 46 refs. (6th International

Conference on Interfacial Phenomena in Composite

Materials, Berlin, Sept.1999)


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.810864


40, No.1, 2001, p.1-21

FRACTURE MECHANICS STUDY OFPOLYPROPYLENE-WOOD FLOURS BLENDSLi T Q; Li R K Y

Guangdong,University of Technology; Hong

Kong,University

PP/wood blends were prepared from various resins and

wood flours by extrusion compounding and injection

moulding. It was observed that the notched Izod strength

of the blends with a relatively brittle resin matrix exceeded

that of the neat resin at higher filler loading when the

compounds contained the maleic anhydride-PP(MAPP)

copolymer. The Izod strength of the blends with a tough

matrix increased with the content of the interfacial

modifier MAPP and was higher in blends with coarser

fillers. Fracture mechanics analyses of the instrumented

drop-weight Charpy test results were then performed to

study the nature of these increases in impact fracture

resistance. It was found that both the fracture

toughness(Kc) and the critical strain release energy(Gc)

increased with filler content in blends containing MAPP.

In blends without MAPP, however, Gc decreased slightly

with filler content, while Kc increased less significantly.

The increases of Gc with MAPP and with increasing filler

particle size were also observed for the blends with a

tougher PP as matrix. 28 refs.

CHINA; HONG KONG

Accession no.810599


20th April 2001, p.12

US LEADS THE WAY

It is briefly reported that wood polymer composites

account for a 300,000 t/y market in the US for building

and garden products. Allchem International is marketing

a wood fibre product suitable for producing a range of

wood polymer composites. Lignocel is a 100% wood fibre

product suitable for producing a variety of materials. It

can be supplied as granules or a fine powder fibre. The

granular product has a higher density which improves its

mixing performance and allows fill levels of up to 85%

to be achieved.

ALLCHEM INTERNATIONALUSA

Accession no.810054


20th April 2001, p.12

WOOD YOU BELIEVE IT?

The market for wood polymer composites has recorded

growth rates of 100% a year over the past five years.

DPDS is marketing the US-developed Strandex process

in the UK. The group of materials covers a wide range of

polymer matrix types, including PP, PE and PVC, as well

as a range of fillers and stiffeners such as wood flour,

flax, jute and other cellulose-based fibre fillers. Finished

products such as decking, cladding and window frames

are already on the market. Wood polymer composite

products are extremely moisture-resistant, with less

thickness swell. Pigments, UV stabilisers and/or fire

retardants can be added to the compound prior to

extrusion.

DPDSEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.810053

Item 192Patent Number: US 6133348 A1 20001017 2000

FLAX SHIVES REINFORCEDTHERMOPLASTIC RESIN COMPOSITIONKolla F A; Balatinecz J J

Cargill Inc.

The present invention is directed to flax shives reinforced

thermoplastic compositions and a method for reinforcing

thermoplastic resins. The present invention provides a use

for flax shives, which is the portion left over after

processing plant materials to separate plant fibres (bast

fibres) from the shives.

USA

Accession no.809061


79, No.6, 7th Feb.2001, p.1084-91

EFFECT OF PROCESSING CONDITIONS ONDIMENSIONS OF SISAL FIBRES INTHERMOPLASTIC BIODEGRADABLECOMPOSITESIannace S; Ali R; Nicolais L

Naples,University

Composites of sisal fibre, both untreated and alkaline

treated, with a biodegradable material, mater Bi-Z, were

produced in a miniature batch mixer. Degradation of sisal

fibre with mixing conditions was studied using both

optical and scanning electron microscopy. Both fibre

length and diameter were reduced, but aspect ratio was

increased, with mixing time, decrease in mixer

temperature and increase in mixer rotor speed, and a semi-

empirical model was developed to predict fibre

dimensions against time of mixing. Alkaline treatment of



the sisal fibre increased the rate of reduction in fibre size.

19 refs


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.808783


Vols.284-5, Dec.2000, p.25-9

CHARACTERISATION OF THE FIBRE/MATRIXADHESION WITH DIFFERENT MICROSCOPICANALYSING METHODS ON NATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCED THERMOSETSMichaeli W; Muenker M; Krumpholz T

IKV; Aachen,University of Technology; RWTH

The addition of butyl titanate as a coupling agent

improved the mechanical properties of natural fibre-

reinforced (flax fibre-reinforced) unsaturated polyester

resins. SEM/energy dispersive X-ray analysis, TEM and

atomic force microscopy were used to study the

mechanism by which the mechanical properties were

improved. The butyl titanate seemed to cause a stiffening

of the matrix, which had a stiffening effect on the

mechanical properties of the natural fibre-reinforced

laminate. Further studies with different resin systems are

necessary to clarify the mechanism involved. 8 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.807871


12, No.51, 19th Feb.2001, p.31

ENTREPRENEUR INVESTS IN WOOD-FLOURMARKETRenstrom R

It is briefly reported that hardwood flooring entrepreneur

Bert Thompson has invested about 3m US dollars for a

new Macon, Ga., mill to transform wood flour into filler

for plastics and chemical processing. Operations at the

newly formed Southern Wood Services will start in March.

SOUTHERN WOOD SERVICES LLCUSA

Accession no.807032


12, No.51, 19th Feb.2001, p.1/31

COMPOSITES GET ALL DECKED OUTBregar B

North American demand for wood/plastic composites,

pegged at 700 million pounds in 2000, should more than

double by 2005. Decking accounts for about 60% of the

total. The driver for composite decks is the demand for

lower-maintenance exterior products that look good. The

composite decking market is expected to grow 25% this

year to about 225m US dollars. Waste wood fibres are

combined with plastic, usually PE, PVC or PP, to make

the weatherproof “lumber”. Recycled or virgin plastic can

be used.

NORTH AMERICA

Accession no.807006


91, No.1, Jan.2001, p.25-7

INJECTION MOULDING OF NATURAL FIBREREINFORCED THERMOPLASTICSMarek A; Widdecke H

The results are reported of a study of the mechanical

properties of natural fibre (sisal) reinforced plastics

(cellulose acetate) produced by injection moulding. The

effect of fibre content on composite properties is discussed

and the mechanical properties of the reinforced

composites compared with those of unreinforced cellulose

acetate. (Kunststoffe, 91, No.1, 2001, p.60-2)


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.806695


79, No.7, 14th Feb. 2001, p.1169-77

SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPY STUDYOF CHEMICALLY MODIFIED COIR FIBRESRout J; Tripathy S S; Nayak S K; Misra M; Mohanty A K

Ravenshaw College; India,Central Institute of Plastics

Engng.& Tech.; Berlin,Technical University

Coir fibres were subjected to various surface treatments,

including dewaxing, grafting with methyl methacrylate,

mercerisation and cyanoethylation, and analysed by

means of SEM and FTIR spectroscopy. Changes in the

surface topology of the treated fibres were evaluated and

measurements of the maximum stress at break carried out

to corroborate the results of scanning electron microscopy.

18 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.805879


Orlando, Fl., 7th-11th May, 2000, paper 724

WOOD FLOUR REINFORCED POLYSTYRENECOMPOSITE USING SEBS-G-MA ASCOMPATIBILIZERChen-Jui Hung; Jenn-Fong Kuan; Jaine-Ming Huang


(SPE)

A functionalised thermoplastic elastomer, poly(styrene-

block-ethylene-block-butadiene)-graft-poly(maleic



anhydride) (SEBS-g-MA), was used as a compatibiliser

in composites of high impact polystyrene containing 30

wt% wood flour. Using compression moulded samples,

the composites were evaluated by measurement of flexural

modulus and impact strength. The morphology of the

impact fracture surfaces was studied using scanning

electron microscopy. Significant improvements in flexural

modulus and impact strength were gained by the

introduction of the compatibiliser, attributed to the in-

situ formation of a copolymer at the polystyrene/wood

interface, which enhanced interfacial adhesion. 6 refs.

TAIWAN

Accession no.805732



EFFECTS OF IMPACT MODIFIERS ON THEPROPERTIES OF RIGID PVC/WOOD-FIBERCOMPOSITESMengeloglu F; Matuana L M; King J A


(SPE)

Composites consisting of rigid poly(vinyl chloride) and

wood fibre, modified by the addition of crosslinked

(acrylic and methacrylate butadiene styrene) and un-

crosslinked (chlorinated polyethylene) impact modifiers,

were prepared by dry mixing followed by extrusion and

compression moulding. The composites were

characterised by measurement of tensile and impact

properties. The tensile strength and modulus were

significantly decreased by the impact modified additions,

whilst the elongation at break was not affected. The impact

resistance was strongly dependent upon the type and

content of impact modifier, increasing significantly with

modifier concentration. The crosslinked modifiers were

more effective than the chlorinated polyethylene. 27 refs.

USA

Accession no.805668

Item 201Asian Plastics News

Oct.2000, p.12-3

WOOD ENTERS THE FRAME

We are told in this article that markets for extruded wood

fibre composite profiles are growing rapidly in the USA,

and are now starting to take off in Europe and Asia. This

article examines the new technologies which are on offer

in detail, as well as explaining the advantages of wood

composites over traditional timber.

DAVIS-STANDARD; CINCINNATI EXTRUSION;

PROPOLYTECH; APPLIED MARKET

INFORMATIONASIA; AUSTRIA; EUROPE-GENERAL; EUROPEAN

COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY; JAPAN;

KOREA; NORTH AMERICA; USA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.804704

Item 202Automotive Engineering International

108, No.10, Oct.2000, p.120

NATURAL FIBERS IN AUTOMOTIVECOMPONENTSBroge J L

It is announced in this short article that DaimlerChrysler

Corp. is to equip the new Mercedes-Benz Travego travel

coach with a natural fibre-reinforced engine and

transmission cover - the first natural fibre-reinforced

exterior vehicle component to go into series production.

Brief details are presented.

DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.; MERCEDES-BENZ;

CHRYSLER GROUPEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

SOUTH AFRICA; USA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.804699


46, No.11, Nov.2000, p.27

“GREEN” DOOR-TRIM PANELS USE PP ANDNATURAL FIBERS

Johnson Controls Inc. is reported to have begun production

of door-trim panels for DaimlerChrysler, using its new

“Eco-Cor” material and process, which is based on PP

reinforced with natural fibres kenaf and hemp. Brief details

of this composite, and the benefits of its use, are given.

JOHNSON CONTROLS INC.;

DAIMLERCHRYSLER; INDIANA BIO-

COMPOSITES; KAFUS BIO-COMPOSITES INC.USA

Accession no.804686

Item 204Patent Number: US 6136415 A1 20001024 2000

VEHICLE INTERIOR TRIM PANEL WITH ASOFT-TOUCH FOAM LAYER, AND A METHODAND APPARATUS FOR MAKING THE SAMESpengler G

RS Technik GmbH

An interior trim component such as a vehicle dashboard

includes a substantially rigid and form-stable substrate of

polypropylene and natural fibres, a supporting halo skeleton

and other frame components heat fused onto the backside

of the substrate, and a polyolefin foam layer as well as a

decorative polyolefin cover film laminated onto the front

side of the substrate. The foam layer has an increased

thickness and a decreased foam density at sharply contoured

or curved areas of the trim component, in comparison to

the flat surfacial areas. As a result, the trim component has

a desirable soft-touch characteristic and impact absorbing

properties at all areas including protruding curves and

edges. A method for forming such a trim component

involves steps of pre-moulding the foam layer and cover

film by vacuum thermoforming, pre-moulding the substrate



by vacuum thermoforming, and then heat laminating the

pre-heated, pre-moulded substrate onto the pre-moulded

foam layer and cover film. The sharply curved or contoured

areas of the component are provided with a greater tolerance

spacing between the substrate and the cover film, which

are held to the respective mould contours by vacuum. Under

the effect of heat and the applied vacuum, the foam layer

expands to have a greater thickness and a lower density in

these sharply contoured areas.


USA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.804658


79, No.3, 18th Jan.2001, p.418-25

CREEP RESISTANCE OF WOOD-FILLEDPOLYSTYRENE/HIGH DENSITYPOLYETHYLENE BLENDSXu B; Simonsen J; Rochefort W E

Oregon,State University

Wood-filled polymer composites have given poor

performance in some applications because of creep, i.e.

deformation of a material under stress with time. The

advantages of blending a plastic of lower creep

polystyrene (PS) with high density polyethylene (HDPE)

at the ratios: 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100

respectively were studied. The blends were melted with

a short-fibre length wood flour (WF), and the elastic

modulus and ultimate stress of extruded bars of each blend

were measured. In all composites increase of WF ratio

increased the elastic modulus, except for 30 and 40% WF,

while the effect of WF on ultimate stress varied. Scanning

EM images and thermal analysis showed that the wood

particles interacted weakly with the PS phase. The creep

rate was calculated using three-point bending geometry

and a load 50% of the ultimate stress. With increase in

WF content creep decreased only slightly, but the increase

was greater when the PS content was increased, except

with pure PS. A WF/75PS-25HDPE blend showed the

minimum creep. 15 refs.

USA

Accession no.804437


22, No.1, Feb.2001, p.104-10

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PROCESSING ANDPROPERTIES OF BIODEGRADABLECOMPOSITES BASED ON PLC/STARCHMATRIX AND SISAL FIBERSCyras V P; Iannace S; Kenny J M

Argentina,Institute of Mat.Science & Technology;

Italy,Institute for Composite Materials Technology;

Perugia,University

Biocomposites were produced using polycaprolactone and

starch as matrix and sisal fibres as reinforcement. An

investigation is carried out with reference to the relationship

between processing conditions and properties of the

biocomposite, a commercial product known as MaterBi-

Z. An alkaline treatment was performed in order to improve

the adhesion and the compatibility of the fibre with the

matrix, and the effect of this treatment on the tensile

properties and morphology was determined. 13 refs.



Accession no.804308



PROFILE EXTRUSION OF HIGHLY FILLEDRECYCLED HDPECharlton Z; Vlachopoulos J; Suwanda D

McMaster University; CRF Technologies Group Ltd.

(SPE)

Recycled high density polyethylene from post consumer

bottles was melt blended with up to 70 wt% rice hulls

and a coupling agent. Subsequently a lubricant was dry-

blended with some of the mixes. The materials were then

extruded using a vented screw extruder, and the

rheological properties determined using a parallel plate

rheometer. Flow simulations were performed using 2D

and 3D finite element analysis. The addition of the rice

hulls resulted in large increases in the dynamic shear

properties, and extrudate tearing occurred at all extrusion

rates, increasing with increasing throughput and

decreasing temperature. The simulations indicated that

the most severe tears occurred when the wall shear stress

was low. 20 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.803873

Item 208Applied Composite Materials

7, Nos.5-6, Nov.2000, p.433-7

LIGNOCELLULOSIC FIBRE REINFORCEDCASEINATE PLASTICSFossen M; Ormel I; Van Vilsteren G E T; Jongsma T J

Wageningen,Agrotechnological Research Institute

Biodegradable natural fibre-reinforced caseinate plastics

were obtained by mixing the plastic with either flax fibres

or wood pulp fibres and the effects of the fibre and fibre

volume fraction on the mechanical properties of the

composites investigated. It was found that reinforcement

of the plastic with up to 20 wt.% of these natural fibres

gave rise to composites exhibiting a six-fold increase in

tensile modulus and a five-fold increase in tensile strength,

which were attributed to the adhesion between the

hydroxyl groups of the fibre and the hydrophilic moieties

of the plastic. 11 refs.



Accession no.803429




7, Nos.5-6, Nov.2000, p.421-32

COMPOSITES FROM NATURAL FIBRES ANDSOY OIL RESINSWilliams G I; Wool R P

Delaware,University

A report is presented on the development of rigid

crosslinked thermosetting polymers from plant

triglycerides, the manufacture of resin transfer moulded

composites based on flax or hemp fibres and a modified

acrylated epoxidised soy oil resin and the properties of

these composites. The tensile properties, flexural

properties, water absorption and fracture surfaces of these

composites are reported and the suitability of these all-

natural composites for high volume, low cost applications

is briefly considered. 8 refs.

USA

Accession no.803428


7, Nos.5-6, Nov.2000, p.415-20

NATURAL FIBRE MAT THERMOPLASTICPRODUCTS FROM A PROCESSOR’S POINT OFVIEWDe Bruijn J C M

Polynorm Plastics BV; Delft,University of Technology

The advantages and disadvantages of natural fibres over

glass fibres in the areas of impact on the environment,

health, safety, dimensional stability, cracking, degradation

of mechanical properties, moisture absorption, odour, cost

and recyclability are considered. Experiments conducted

on natural fibre mat thermoplastic composites for

automotive applications, which highlight some of the

disadvantages of these materials, are briefly reported and

possible end-used for these composites are identified. 2

refs.



Accession no.803427


7, Nos.5-6, Nov.2000, p.403-14

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF NATURALFIBRE MAT REINFORCED THERMOPLASTICOksman K

SICOMP AB

The results are reported of an investigation into the

mechanical properties and morphological properties of

four different commercially available semi-finished

natural fibre mat reinforced thermoplastic composites.

The materials studied were PP melt impregnated fibre mat

in the form of sheet and non-woven PP fibres and flax

fibres in the form of needle punched fibre mat. The

properties of these composites are compared with those

of conventional glass fibre mat reinforced thermoplastic

and the pure polymer matrix. 9 refs.


EUROPE

Accession no.803426


7, Nos.5-6, Nov.2000, p.387-402

INFLUENCE OF THE PHYSICAL STRUCTUREOF FLAX FIBRES ON THE MECHANICALPROPERTIES OF FLAX FIBRE REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESVan Den Oever M J A; Bos H L; Van Kemenade M J J M

Wageningen,Agrotechnological Research Institute

The results are reported of a study of the influence of the

physical structure of uncombed and combed, random flax

fibres on the tensile and flexural properties of flax fibre-

reinforced PP composites manufactured by the wet lay-

up method. The effect of improved fibre-matrix adhesion

on the mechanical properties of scutched and hackled flax

fibre-reinforced PP achieved using a maleic anhydride/

propylene graft copolymer, as adhesion promoter, is

discussed and the various data obtained compared using

the Cox-Krenchel model for E-modulus and the Kelly-

Tyson model for composite strength. 26 refs.



Accession no.803425


7, Nos.5-6, Nov.2000, p.373-85

POSSIBILITIES TO IMPROVE THEPROPERTIES OF NATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCED PLASTICS BY FIBREMODIFICATION - JUTE POLYPROPYLENECOMPOSITESGassan J; Bledzki A K

Kassel,Universitat

The results are reported of a study of the effect of fibre-

matrix adhesion on the properties of jute fibre-reinforced

PP subjected to fatigue and impact loading. Fibre-matrix

adhesion was improved by surface treating the fibres with

maleic anhydride-propylene copolymer, as coupling

agent. The effects of fibre surface treatment on dynamic

modulus versus number of load cycles and of fibre surface

treatment and fibre content on specific damping capacity

versus applied maximum load, as measured by load

increasing tests in tensile mode, are discussed as are the

influence of fibre surface treatment, number of impacts

and test temperature of impact loss energy and of number

of impact events and temperature during impact on the

residual dynamic modulus of the composites. 30 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.803424




7, Nos.5-6, Nov.2000, p.351-72

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF NATURAL-FIBRE-MAT-REINFORCED THERMOPLASTICSBASED ON FLAX FIBRES ANDPOLYPROPYLENEGarkhail S K; Heijenrath R W H; Peijs T

Eindhoven,University of Technology;

London,University,Queen Mary & Westfield College

Random flax-mat-reinforced PP composites were

produced using a film-stacking method and a suspension

impregnation method. The effects of fibre length and fibre

volume fraction on stiffness, mechanical strength and

impact strength and of maleic anhydride-grafted PP for

improving interfacial adhesion on the mechanical

properties of the composites were evaluated. The results

obtained are compared with those for glass mat reinforced

thermoplastics and with predictions obtained using

micromechanical models for random short fibre-

reinforced composites. 41 refs.


NETHERLANDS; UK; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.803423


7, Nos.5-6, Nov.2000, p.341-9

RTM HEMP FIBRE-REINFORCED POLYESTERCOMPOSITESSebe G; Cetin N S; Hill C A S; Hughes M

Swansea,University of Wales

Hemp fibre-reinforced unsaturated polyester composites

were obtained by resin transfer moulding and their flexural

and impact properties investigated as a function of fibre

loading. The effect of chemical modification of the fibres

using methacrylic anhydride to introduce reactive vinylic

groups at the surface of the fibres on the interfacial

adhesion between the fibres and the matrix and on the

mechanical properties of the composites was also

evaluated. The properties of these composites were

compared with those of glass fibre-reinforced composites.

15 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.803422


7, Nos.5-6, Nov.2000, p.331-9

EFFECT OF ALKALI TREATMENT ON THEADHESION CHARACTERISTICS OF SISALFIBRESBisanda E T N

Dar es Salaam,University

Sisal fibres were treated with a solution of sodium

hydroxide and the influence of this mercerisation treatment

on the wettability and cohesion of sisal-epoxy composites

was evaluated. It was found that alkali treatment gave rise

to fibres with enhanced wettability and that composites

containing the treated fibres exhibited improved

compression strength and water resistance. 14 refs.

TANZANIA

Accession no.803421


7, Nos.5-6, Nov.2000, p.295-329

OIL PALM FIBRE REINFORCED PHENOLFORMALDEHYDE COMPOSITES: INFLUENCEOF FIBRE SURFACE MODIFICATIONS ON THEMECHANICAL PERFORMANCESreekala M S; Kumaran M G; Joseph S; Jacob M;

Thomas S


Gandhi,University

Oil palm fibres were subjected to various surface treatments,

including mercerisation, acrylonitrile grafting, acrylation,

latex coating, permanganate treatment, acetylation and

benzoyl peroxide treatment, and the effects of such treatments

on the interfacial and mechanical properties of the composites

evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy and IR

spectroscopy were used to investigate the morphological and

structural changes occurring in the fibres. The stress-strain

properties, tensile strength, tensile modulus, elongation at

break of the treated and untreated fibres were examined and

the effect of hydrophobic-hydrophilic balance on the impact

properties of the composites determined. Scanning electron

microscopy was also employed to study the tensile and

impact fracture surfaces of the composites. 44 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.803420

Item 218China Synthetic Rubber Industry

24, No.1, 2001, p.44

MECHANICAL AND FRACTURE BEHAVIOUROF POLYPROPYLENE/SISAL FIBERCOMPOSITES COMPATIBILIZED BY MALEICANHYDRIDE GRAFTED SEBSXiaolin X; Xingping Z; Renwei Q

Huazhong,University of Science & Technology; Gudao

Oil Production

Maleic anhydride grafted SEBS is used as a compatibiliser

in sisal fibre-reinforced PP to improve interfacial adhesion

between the fibres and the matrix. In addition, the

mechanical properties of PP/MA-SEBS/SF composites

are improved, and it is shown that the Izod impact strength

of these composites increases with sisal fibre content.

Fracture behaviour is examined by means of the drop

weight dart impact test. 3 refs.

CHINA

Accession no.803122




Manufacturing

31A, No.12, 2000, p.1303-10

EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION AND FLOWVISUALISATION OF THE RESIN TRANSFERMOULD FILLING PROCESS FOR NON-WOVENHEMP REINFORCED PHENOLIC COMPOSITESRichardson M O W; Zhang Z Y

Loughborough,University

Resin transfer moulding (RTM) of glass fibre reinforced

polymeric composites offers the advantages of

automation, low cost and versatile design of fibre

reinforcement. Replacement of glass fibres with natural

plant fibres as reinforcement in polymeric composites

provides additional technological, economical, ecological

and environmental benefits. The resin transfer mould

filling process has significant effects on different aspects,

such as fibre wetting out and impregnation, injection gate

design, ‘dry patch’ and void formation. Flow visualisation

experiments are carried out using a transparent RTM

mould to develop a better understanding of the mould

filling process for hemp mat reinforced phenolic

composites. The mould filling of unreinforced phenolics

is characterised by a steady state flow. In the case of hemp

non-woven reinforced system, the mould filling process

can be considered as the flow of fluids through porous

media. Fibre washing is a typical problem encountered

during the injection process, leading to poor property

uniformity. In addition, a preferential flow path is usually

created near the edges and corners of the mould. The path

exhibits low flow resistance and causes the resin flow

front to advance much faster in these regions. The edge

flow disturbs the steady flow, leading to difficulties in

venting arrangement and ‘dry patch’ formation. The edge

flow and fibre washing are alleviated by reinforcement

manipulation so steady state flow can be achieved.

Relationships between filling time and injection pressure

and between filling time and different fibre weight

fractions are established for certain specific injection

strategies. 18 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.802602


60, No.16, 2000, p.2967-77

THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY AND THERMALDIFFUSIVITY ANALYSES OF LOW-DENSITYPOLYETHYLENE COMPOSITES REINFORCEDWITH SISAL, GLASS AND INTIMATELY MIXEDSISAL/GLASS FIBRESKalaprasad G; Pradeep P; Mathew G; Pavithran C;

Thomas S

Mahatma Gandhi,University; Kerala,Sree Narayana

College; Kerala,CMS College; Kerala,Regional

Research Laboratory

The thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of sisal-

reinforced PE (SRP), glass-reinforced polyethylene (GRP)

and hybrid fibre-reinforced PE (GSRP) is evaluated at

cryogenic to high temperature (120-350 K). It is observed

that the variation of thermal conductivity with temperature

is almost the same for LDPE and SRP containing

perpendicularly oriented sisal fibres. The difference

between the values of thermal conductivity shown by LDPE

and GRP is greater than that of SRP and LDPE. The

enhanced thermal conductivity of glass fibre is due to the

presence of Fe2+ ions in the glass fibres, The linear

variation in thermal conductivity with fibre loading is

explained with the help of a model suggested by Agari.

The difference between the thermal conductivity properties

in directions parallel and perpendicular to file applied flux

is a maximum for SRP owing to the anisotropic nature of

sisal fibre. The difference is marginal for GRP on account

of its isotropic nature. The position of GSRP is found to be

intermediate. It is observed that the variation of thermal

diffusivity with temperature is just opposite to that of

thermal conductivity. This may be due to a reduction in

the mean free path of phonons. An empirical equation is

derived to explain the variation in thermal conductivity

and thermal diffusivity with temperature. 32 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.802597


Manufacturing

32A, No.1, 2001, p.119-27

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF VINYLESTERRESIN MATRIX COMPOSITES REINFORCEDWITH ALKALI-TREATED JUTE FIBRESRay D; Sarkar B k; Rana A K; Bose N R


Indian Jute Industries’ Research Assn.; India,Central

Glass & Ceramic Res.Inst.

Jute fibres are subjected to alkali treatment with 5% NaOH

solution for 0, 2,4, 6 and 8 h at 30 deg.C. The modulus of the

jute fibres improves by 12, 68 and 79% after 4, 6 and 8 h of

treatment, respectively. The tenacity of the fibres improves

by 46% after 6 and 8 h treatment and the % breaking strain

is reduced by 23% after 8 h treatment. For 35% composites

with 4 h-treated fibres, the flexural strength improves from

199.1 to 238.9 MPa by 20%, modulus improves from 11.89

to 14.69 GPa by 23% and laminar shear strength increases

from 0.238 to 0.283 MPa by 19%. On plotting different

values of slopes obtained from the rates of improvement of

flexural strength and modulus, against NaOH treatment time,

two different failure modes are apparent before and after 4 h

of NaOH treatment. In the first region between 0 and 4 h,

fibre pull out is predominant whereas in the second region

between 6 and 8 h, transverse fracture occurs with minimum

fibre pull out. This observation is well supported by SEM

investigation of the fracture surfaces. 32 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.802556



Item 222Natural Polymers and Composites. Conference

proceedings.

Sao Pedro, Brazil, 14th-17th May 2000, p.557-63

NATURAL POLYMERIC FIBROUS MATERIALSFOR FIRE RESISTANT UPHOLSTERYKozlowski R; Mieleniak B; Muzyczek M

Poznan,Institute of Natural Fibres

Edited by: Mattoso L H C; Leao A; Frollini E

(EMBRAPA; UNESP; USP)

Fulfilment of the requirements of the market in the field

of upholstered furniture and mattresses both from the point

of view of their form, modern comfort and fire safety

requirements presents a real challenge to furniture

manufacturers. For flammability evaluation, full-scale

tests as well as bench scale tests are very useful. To meet

the test requirements, modern fire-resisting components,

i.e. non-flammable containing composites, are designed.

Natural fibres in upholstery composites have been

superseded by synthetic fibres; but now the former are

again perceived as ecological, renewable and

environmentally friendly materials. This return of natural

fibres is accelerated by the possibility of producing natural

fibre-containing materials of increased resistance to

ignition even in the absence of flame retardants. 13 refs.


Accession no.802335


proceedings.


COMPOSITES BASED ON POLYPROPYLENEAND FLAX FIBRES - A STUDY OF FIREPERFORMANCE AND SOME PHYSICAL ANDMECHANICAL PROPERTIESHelwig M; Paukszta D; Garbarczyk J; Borysiak S

Poznan,Institute of Natural Fibres; Poznan,University

of Technology



Biodegradability and interesting physical and mechanical

properties of PP/cellulose composites are an essential

motive for fundamental investigations on various

properties of such materials. An addition of lignocellulosic

particles to polymer results in a change in properties of

the product obtained which is due to properties of

lignocellulosic material and those of the polymer

depending on the proportion of both materials. It is also

reflected in the flammability characteristics of the

composites. Isotactic PP composites containing short flax

and hemp fibres have previously been studied. The

presence of such short fibres causes formation of

hexagonal, as well as monoclinic form of PP. The

hexagonal form is observed in samples obtained by

injection moulding. Composites with long flax fibres are

analysed. The conditions of the processing of the

composites plates are examined to determine the basic

properties and also changes in the structure of the PP

matrix. Flammability as well as some physical and

mechanical properties of composites based on PP and long

flax fibres are discussed. 12 refs.


Accession no.802330


proceedings.


THERMAL PROPERTIES OF HEMPCOMPOSITE BOARDS TO BE USED INBUILDING COMPONENTSPogorzelski J A; Firkowicz-Pogorzelska K

Poland,Building Research Institute



One possibility of the utilisation of waste materials is

manufacture of insulating boards for use in building

components. New materials for building use should be

approved by a special board or organisation. Insulating

boards of hemp straw are now being evaluated for their

performance in such applications; among the characteristics

tested are thermal conductivity as well as the thermal

transmission of the building component. 3 refs.


Accession no.802329


proceedings.


INDUSTRIAL HEMP CULTIVATION AND NEWTRENDS IN INDUSTRIAL HEMP PRODUCTS INCHINAWei W

Liaoning Tongxin Industrial Co.



Contemporary cultivation, production and conditions of

industrial hemp in China are summarised. New trends of

hemp products, as application of an ecological raw

material in the country, are identified.

CHINA

Accession no.802328


proceedings.


TECHNOLOGY OF CULTIVATION,HARVESTING AND PRIMARY PROCESSING OFBAST FIBRE PLANTS, E.G. HEMP FORSPINNING PURPOSES



Kaniewski R; Mankowski J; Rynduch W; Rolski S;

Tymkow J



The technology of cultivation, harvesting and primary

processing of bast fibre plants, e.g. hemp for spinning,

are discussed.


Accession no.802325


proceedings.


COIR-BASED FIBREBOARD FOR MOULDEDCOMPONENTSWiedman G A; Costa C Z; Nahuz M A R

Sao Paulo,University; Sao Paulo,Instituto de Pesquisas

Tecnologicas



Technical feasibility for the production of fibre boards

from coconut fibre using tannin and urea-formaldehyde

binders is evaluated. The basic properties of the panels

are presented and an industrial application of the

composite is proposed in a school chair prototype. 7 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.802324


proceedings.


LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT OF AUTOMOBILESEATS BASED ON COCONUT FIBRE ANDLATEXSalazar V L P; Leao A L

UNESP



An attempt is made to compare seats based on coconut

fibre and latex versus PU foam. Tests simulating the

natural ageing in those seats, the waste generated along

its useful life is evaluated, and compression tests and

simultaneous torsion are carried out on coconut fibre with

latex and PU of different sizes. For the study of

deformation models of simple linear regression and

descriptive statistics are used. 2 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.802323


proceedings.


EFFECT OF THE NOVEL FILLER KENAFFIBRES ON THE PHYSICAL-MECHANICALPROPERTIES OF NATURAL RUBBER (NR)VULCANISATESEl-Sabbagh S H; Hariri D M; EI-Ghaffar M A A

Dokki,National Research Centre



The physicomechanical properties of NR vulcanisates

loaded with kenaf fibres (long and short) are studied using

the adhesion system (hydrated silica, resorcinol and

hexamethylene tetramine) (HRH) and compared with that

of NR vulcanisates loaded with the synthetic viscose short

fibres. The effect of fibre content on the

physicomechanical properties of the NR vulcanisates is

also studied before and after ageing. The loaded kenaf

fibres show a reinforcing effect higher than that of the

synthetic viscose fibres and improved rheological

properties. Scanning electron microscopy is used to

investigate the surface texture of non-loaded and loaded

NR vulcanisates. 23 refs.

EGYPT

Accession no.802322


proceedings.


IMPACT STRENGTH OF PHENOLICMATRICES REINFORCED WITHLIGNOCELLULOSIC MATERIALPaiva J M F; Silva S P; Tanaka I A; Trindade W G;

Angelucci C A; Frollini E

Sao Paulo,University



Phenolic (resol type) and lignin-phenol (40% sugarcane

bagasse lignin/phenol w/w) prepolymer are synthesised,

in order to be used to prepare thermoset matrices

composites, using sugarcane bagasse, sisal, jute and

curaua as reinforcing agents, these being lignocellulosic

materials modified by chemical and/or physical methods.

Sugarcane bagasse presents a small improvement in

impact strength for both phenolic and ligno-phenol

matrices. Jute and composites show good performance

as reinforcing agents for the thermoset used. Compared

with the other lignocellulosic materials used, sisal

composites present an exceptional impact strength

increase with fibre length. Its high spiral angle is probably

an important structural parameter. 16 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.802321


proceedings.




JUTE/COTTON WOVEN FABRIC REINFORCEDPOLYESTER COMPOSITES: EFFECT OFHYBRIDISATIONJoseph K; De Carvalho L H

St.Berchman’s College; Paraiba,Universidad Federal



Effects of hybridisation on the tensile properties of jute-

cotton woven fabric reinforced polyester composites are

investigated as function of fibre content, orientation and

roving texture. It is observed that tensile properties along

the direction of jute roving alignment (transverse to cotton

roving alignment) increases steadily with fibre content

up to 50% and then shows a decreasing tendency. Tensile

properties along the direction of roving alignment

(transverse to jute roving alignment) remain almost

constant. It is noted that tensile strength of composite,

having 50% fibre content parallel to jute roving direction

(transverse to cotton roving) is about 220% higher than

pure polyester resin. It is also observed that tensile

properties of the composites increases with jute roving

texture, i.e. composites having 10/4 jute roving show

maximum tensile strength. Tensile properties of cotton/

cotton woven fabric reinforced polyester composites do

not show any significant improvement with fibre

orientation and fibre content. 14 refs.

BRAZIL; INDIA

Accession no.802320


proceedings.


PRELIMINARY STUDY ON THE USE OF SISALFIBRES AS A REINFORCEMENT FOR TYRERUBBERMartins M A; Joekes I

Campinas,Universidade Estadual



The effect of chemical modification (mercerisation and

acetylation) of the sisal fibre in tyre rubber composites is

evaluated. Tyre rubber is chosen as a large amount of tyres

are discarded around the world, generating a large

environmental impact. 8 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.802316


proceedings.


PLASMA MODIFICATION OF SISAL ANDHIGH-DENSITY POLYETHYLENECOMPOSITES: EFFECT ON MECHANICAL

PROPERTIESMartin A R; Manolache S; Mattoso L H C; Rowell R

M; Denes F

Sao Carlos,Universidade Federal; Wisconsin-

Madison,University; EMBRAPA



Sisal fibres and finely powdered HDPE are surface

functionalised using dichlorosilane under R-F plasma

conditions to improve interfacial adhesion between the

two dissimilar substrates. The functionalised PE (70%)

and sisal (30%) are compounded in four different ways

using a thermokinetic mixer and injected moulded into

composites specimens for testing. Some improvements

in mechanical properties of the composites due to the

plasma treatments are achieved. Scanning electronic

microscopy data indicate that some compatibilisation of

the two plasma modified phases has taken place as

compared to non-plasma treated composite. 14 refs.

BRAZIL; USA

Accession no.802315


proceedings.


WOOD FLOUR/POLYHYDROXYBUTYRATECOMPOSITESCaraschi J; Leao A L

UNESP



The mechanical properties of composites made of wood

flour (WF) and bioplastic polyhydroxybutyrate are

investigated. Preparation of WF/PHB composites is done

by mixing the components and moulding in specimens

by injection moulding to ASTM standards. WF is used in

ratios of 10 to 40% by weight. Dimensional stability,

density and tests of mechanical properties of the

composites are evaluated. The effects of surface

modification and content of the WF on the mechanical

properties of the composites are discussed. The results

indicate that the tensile modulus of the composites

increases, and that tensile strength and elongation at break

decrease with high WF content. The surface treatments

employed do not affect the tensile properties of the

composites. Results show that WF can be used as excellent

reinforcing materials for low-cost composites and are able

to match economical and ecological interests. 7 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.802314


proceedings.




WOODFLOUR/SISAL FIBRES AS HYBRIDREINFORCEMENT OF THERMOSETPOLYMERSMarcovich N E; Ostrovsky A N; Aranguren M I;

Reboredo M M

Mar del Plata,University; CONICET



Wood flour (a fibrous particulate filler) and sisal, in the

form of short fibres, are selected as reinforcements of an

unsaturated polyester matrix. Sisal fibres are of particular

interest because their composites have all improved

impact response when compared with other

lignocellulosic composites, added to a moderate tensile

response. One difficulty encountered during the

incorporation of lignocellulosic fillers into a polymeric

matrix (except for phenolics or urea-formaldehyde

matrices) is the hydrogen bonding which tends to hold

the cellulose fibrils together. The polar nature of wood

based fillers adversely affects the dispersion of such polar

materials in a polymeric matrix. The mechanical

properties of composites made of a thermoset polyester

filled with wood flour or sisal individually and with both

types of fibres simultaneously (hybrids) are evaluated. 4

refs.

ARGENTINA

Accession no.802312


proceedings.


EFFECTS OF WEATHERING ON COLOURLOSS OF NATURAL FIBRE-THERMOPLASTICCOMPOSITESFalk R H; Felton C; Lundin T

USDA Forest Products Laboratory; Global Resource

Technologies LLC; Wisconsin-Madison,University



The technology currently exists to manufacture natural

fibre-thermoplastic composites from recycled materials.

Development of commodity building products from these

composites would open huge markets for waste-based

materials in the USA. To date, the construction industry

has only accepted wood-thermoplastic composite lumber

and only for limited applications. In a little more than a

decade, the use of composite decking has grown to about

4% of the exterior decking market. Even larger markets

within the building industry could be developed, such as

the roofing market. However, a lack of durability

performance data and reluctance by homebuilders to use

undemonstrated products has hampered market

development. Because thermoplastics are polymeric in

nature, they are susceptible to environmental stresses.

These stresses include, but are not limited to, thermal and

moisture induced expansion and contraction, UV and

chemical agents such as organic solvents, ozone, acids

and bases. The objective is to investigate the effects of

weathering on natural fibre-thermoplastic composites for

roofing applications. Because colour fade is an important

performance factor for roofing products, preliminary

results are presented indicating the effect of weathering

on colour fade of selected composite formulations. 3 refs.

USA

Accession no.802307


proceedings.


EFFECTS OF FIBRE LENGTH IN RESOL/SISALCOMPOSITESZarate C N; Aranguren M I; Reboredo M M

Mar del Plata,University



The flexural properties for different composites of resol

using cotton fibres sugar cane bagasse and sisal mat as

reinforcements, have been analysed. It was observed that

cotton and sugar cane bagasse composites present

maximum values in flexural strength (Cb ) and modulus

(Eb) for certain fibre volume fraction, VF, and for higher

loads these properties decrease. This decrease is attributed

to incomplete wetting of fibre because both cotton and

sugar cane bagasse, present a higher degree of disorder,

generating a subsequent increase in void content and fibre-

fibre contact. The porosity is evaluated through the

calculation of void volume fraction, which is shown as a

function of Vf, for resol/raw cotton composites. It can be

seen that the void volume fraction increases as the fibre

content increases, due to the incomplete wetting. The

effect of fibre length in resol/sisal composites is examined.

In all cases the fibres are arranged randomly in three

dimensions. 4 refs.

ARGENTINA

Accession no.802304


proceedings.


MECHANICAL PROPERTIES ANDMORPHOLOGY OF SISAL FIBRE EPOXYCOMPOSITESOksman K; Wallstrom L; Berglund L; Filho R D T

SICOMP AB; Lulea,University of Technology



The morphology and mechanical properties of sisal fibre

composites manufactured with resin transfer moulding

(RTM) is studied. The sisal fibres are unidirectional and

the matrix is an epoxy resin. The mechanical properties



of the composites are compared to conventional RTM

manufactured glass fibre composites, flax fibre

composites and to the pure epoxy. The results of

mechanical testing show that the (46/54) sisal/epoxy

composite has a stiffness of about 20 GPa compared to

the stiffness in pure epoxy of 3.2 GPa. The same

composite has a tensile strength of 210 MPa compared to

80 MPa of the epoxy. 13 refs.


EUROPE

Accession no.802303


proceedings.


EFFECT OF CHEMICAL MODIFICATIONS ONTHE MECHANICAL PERFORMANCE OF OILPALM FIBRE REINFORCED PHENOLFORMALDEHYDE COMPOSITESSreekala M S; Kumaran M G; Thomas S


Gandhi,University



Oil palm fibres are used as reinforcement in phenol

formaldehyde resin. The fibres are subjected to different

chemical modifications to improve interface properties.

Mechanical properties of untreated and treated fibres are

studied. Changes in tensile strength, tensile modulus and

elongation at break of the fibres on various modifications

are compared. The incorporation of the modified fibres

results in composites with excellent impact resistance.

Use of coupling agents enhances impact strength of

untreated composite by a factor of four. 9 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.802302


proceedings.


SISAL FIBRE REINFORCED POLYMERCOMPOSITES: STATUS AND FUTUREJoseph K J; Mattoso L H C

St.Berchman’s College; EMBRAPA



Natural fibres are prospective reinforcing materials and

their use so long has been more traditional than technical.

They have long served many useful purposes but the

application of the material technology for the utilisation of

natural fibres as reinforcement in polymer matrix took place

in comparatively recent years. Economics and other related

factors in many developing countries, where natural fibres

are abundant, demand scientists and engineers to apply

appropriate technology to utilise these natural fibres as

effectively and economically as possible to produce good

quality fibre reinforced polymer composites for housing

and other needs. Among the various natural fibres, sisal is

of particular interest in that its composites have high impact

strength besides having moderate tensile and flexural

properties compared to other lignocellulosic fibres. The

research work published in the field of sisal fibre reinforced

polymer composites is reviewed with special reference to

the processing techniques, physical and mechanical

properties of the composites. 42 refs.

BRAZIL; INDIA

Accession no.802300


proceedings.


PROCESSING AND CHARACTERISATION OFPLASTICISED STARCH 1 TUNICIN WHISKERSNANOCOMPOSITE MATERIALSAngles M N; Vignon M R; Dufresne A

CERMAV-CNRS



Starch is not truly thermoplastic as most synthetic

polymers. However, it can be melted by water addition

and made to flow at high temperatures under pressure

and shear. In order to extrude or mould starch, it should

be converted into thermoplastic starch. Addition of water

or other plasticisers enables starch to flow under milder

conditions and reduces degradation considerably. By

itself, starch is a poor choice as a replacement for any

plastic. It is mostly water soluble, difficult to process and

brittle when used without plasticiser addition. Its

mechanical properties are very sensitive to moisture

content, which is difficult to control. Previous research

has shown that some properties can be significantly

improved by blending with cellulose fillers. Improved

thermomechanical properties and decrease of the water

sensitivity of these systems are reported. However, the

understanding of the phenomena involved in these

improvements requires processing and characterisation

of model systems. Such a system can be obtained using

cellulose whiskers as filler. 12 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.802278


proceedings.


STUDY OF BENZYLATED SISAL FIBRES BY 13C SOLID STATE NMRMello N C; Ferreira F C; Curvelo A A S; Mattoso L H

C; Colnago L A



EMBRAPA; Sao Paulo,University



Benzylated sisal derivatives are prepared from the treatment

of sisal fibres with benzyl chloride, in sodium hydroxide

solution, at different reaction times. The alkaline treatment

besides eliminating lignin and polyoses modifies the

arrangement of the cellulose chains and promotes the

benzylation of the cellulosic hydroxyl groups. The

benzylated products and the raw material are characterised

by 13C CP/MAS NMR. From the 13C NMR spectra it is

possible to monitor benzylation extent by determining the

ratio between the areas correspondent to the benzyl moieties

(signal in 129 and 138 ppm) and the cellulose backbone

(signal of 60 to 110 ppm). This ratio reaches a maximum

value of 2.8 for the benzylated derivative obtained with 12

hours of reaction time. 17 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.802244


proceedings.


COMPOSITION AND STRUCTURE OF CELLWALLS OF FLAX FIBRES: TARGETS FORBIOTECHNOLOGYGirault R; Andeme-Onzighi C; His I; Driouich A;

Morvan C

CNRS



Owing to cellulases, the main encrusting polysaccharides

of fibre secondary walls, namely 1-4-beta-D galactan

chains are scrutinised in their native form and shown to

consist of long chains, branched onto a RG-I backbone.

Two proteoglycans are isolated and characterised as

deficient in hydroxyproline and by high levels of glutamic

acid and aspartic acids. They react strongly with beta-

glucosyl Yariv reagent, suggesting a relationship with cell

wall hydroxyproline-deficient arabinogalactan proteins

(AGPs). Using immunogold electron microscopy with

well characterised antibodies, the distribution of various

epitopes associated with either pectins or AGPs is mapped.

Unesterified pectic epitopes recognised by PGA/RG-I

antibodies are localised not only in the middle lamellae

and cell functions but also all over the secondary wall of

fibres. The 1-4-beta-D galactan epitopes recognised by

the monoclonal antibody (mAb) LM5 are present near

the plasmalemma in young fibres but are homogeneously

distributed throughout the secondary walls in more mature

fibres. AGP epitopes recognised by anti 1-6-beta-Gal4

and mAb LM2 antibodies are primarily in the half of the

secondary wall nearest the plasmalemma. LM2 epitopes

are then undetectable later in fibre differentiation. These

findings confirm hence the biochemical data showing that

early developing flax fibres synthesise and secrete

different pectin and AGP molecules in addition to

cellulose and suggest that the composition of fibre walls

is spatially and developmentally regulated. 16 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.802241


proceedings.


HEMP AND KENAF: PROFITABLE MARKETSAND PREPARATION OF PRODUCTSCappelletto P; Mongardini F; Brizzi M

Rome,Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato



The use of non-wood raw material could be an effective

mean of backing up world-wide wood supply, especially

in countries with insufficient forest resources. Fibre plants

industrially grown are usually herbaceous or bushy plants

with a short growing period. Their stems are formed by

many layers, the most important of which are phloem and

xylem; other layers such as the epidermis, cambium and

pith do not currently have any commercial importance.

When the textile type fibre is prevailing in the crop

economy, non-woody plants are commonly named bast

fibre plants. Much attention has been devoted to bast fibre

plants and, between them, kenaf and hemp. These plants

seems to be promising in that they have a short growing

period, they give high yield of product and they are

versatile as they produce various types of fibres and by-

products which can be utilised in many different sectors.

It is important to note that their most valuable fractionis

only the 30% of the whole biomass, and so the woody

fraction must be recovered and utilised in profitable

outlets. 3 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.802240



ENHANCEMENT OF NATURAL FIBER-EPOXYINTERACTION USING BI-FUNCTIONALSURFACE MODIFIERSSampath A; Martin G C

Syracuse,University

(SPE)

Jute fibres were woven into fabric, treated with a

number of bifunctional amine surface modifiers and

used to prepare epoxy resin composites. The influence

of the modifiers on fibre-matrix interactions was

determined by measuring the flexural modulus of the

composites. 2-Amino 5-chloropyridine gave the highest

enhancement in the fibre-matrix bonding, followed by



3-amino benzoic acid and 2-amino 4-chloro 6-methyl

pyridine. 8 refs.

USA

Accession no.801988


30, No.12, Dec.2000, p.62/6

WOOD-FIBRE COMPOSITES BUILDPROMISING ROLE IN EXTRUSIONLeaversuch R D

The extrusion of profiles in which a plastic is used to

encapsulate wood fibre is entering a new and promising

stage. On the polymer side, the long-preferred material

of choice, reclaimed PE, is now being supplemented by

virgin PE, PVC and PP. Additive technology is also being

utilised in more ambitious ways. Wood-fibre composites

are spawning novel construction profiles including

decking, fencing, railing, window, corner post and

framing. Most processors have depended heavily on

conical, twin-screw counter-rotating extrusion equipment

supplied by ExtrusionTek Milacron. A shift in processing

methods is now likely to affect some key sectors. This

involves inline or direct extrusion of wood-plastic

composite profiles and dispenses with pre-drying of wood.

WORLD

Accession no.801783


30, No.12, Dec.2000, p.16

AUDI A2 GOES NATURAL TO CUT WEIGHT

It is briefly reported that Audi’s energy-efficient A2 is the

world’s first volume-production aluminium car and the

lightest car in its class. Interior door panels are made from

a natural fibre-reinforced PU that has an extremely low

mass per unit, but very high dimensional stability. Fibre

mats made of flax, sisal or hemp are coated on both sides

with a fine layer of a special two-component PUR system

developed by Bayer, using Hennecke’s NafpurTec process.

AUDI AGEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.801765


No.41, Sept./Oct.2000, p.46

English; French

DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION TOEXPAND USE OF NATURAL FIBRES INAUTOMOTIVE COMPONENTS

In Germany, DaimlerChrysler Corp. is to equip its new

travel coach with a natural-fibre-reinforced engine and

transmission cover. Brief details are given.

DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.801324


47, No.4, 2000, p.667-74

INFLUENCE OF WATER ON PROPERTIES OFCELLULOSIC FIBRE REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESHargitai H; Racz I

Bay Zoltan,Institute of Materials Science &

Technology; Budapest,Technical University

A study was made of the mechanical properties (three

point bending and Izod impact strength) of composites

of PP reinforced with flax fibres having different moisture

contents. The effects of fibre moisture content and of the

amount of coupling agent (maleic anhydride grafted PP)

on the mechanical properties of the composites are

discussed. 29 refs.

EASTERN EUROPE; HUNGARY

Accession no.800195



EFFECTS OF LONG TERM ULTRAVIOLETRADIATION ON THE MECHANICALPROPERTIES OF WOOD FLOUR FILLEDRECYCLED HDPEHeuer D; Albert M

Pennsylvania,State University

(SPE)

Recycled high density polyethylene containing 40% wood

flour (60 mesh pine) was injection moulded and exposed

to UV radiation in accelerated weather testing equipment

for time periods of 250-1000 h. The samples were then

subjected to tensile, flexural and impact testing. A small

increase in yield stress and tensile modulus was observed,

the impact strength was unchanged, and decreases were

observed in the other measured properties. It is proposed

that the UV light may have been preferentially absorbed

by the wood flour, and that the thermal energy of the

incident radiation caused a slight increase in surface

crystallinity.

USA

Accession no.799937


79, No.4, 24th Jan.2001, p.575-81

FTIR SPECTRA AND PHYSICO-CHEMICALBEHAVIOUR OF VINYL ESTER PARTICIPATEDTRANSESTERIFICATION AND CURING OFJUTE



Samal R K; Acharya S; Mohanty M; Ray M C

Orissa,Ravenshaw College

Details are given of the transesterification of jute with

butyl acrylate using sodium hydroxide, pyridine and a

pyridine-acetone mixture as catalyst. The modified jute

was then cured with benzoyl peroxide in acetone. The

modified and unmodified jute was characterised by FTIR.

The percent moisture regain, mechanical strength and

chemical resistance of the jute fibres were tested. 24 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.799593


27, No. 11, 2000, p.T/25-30

THERMOPLASTIC POLYMERS REINFORCEDWITH NATURAL FIBRES. 2. EFFECT OF THEWATER CONTENT OF THE FIBRES ON THEMECHANICAL PROPERTIESHargitai H; Racz I

The effect of the quantity of maleic anhydride grafted

polypropylene as a chemical coupling agent to improve

interfacial adhesion between fibre and matrix in PP

composites reinforced with flax fibre, was tested.

Particular reference was made to the effect of the

moisture content of the fibres on the mechanical

properties of the composite specimens. Increase in theamount of additive was shown to have a favourable effect

on the tensile and bending properties of the composite,

but the impact bending strength decreases with increase

in the amount of maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene.

In most cases, it was found that an increase in the moisture

content led to impaired properties. Scanning electron

microscopy of the fracture surface of the composites

showed agreement with the other tests that increasing the

amount of maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene as

coupling agent, gave rise to a stronger interaction at the

fibre/matrix interface. 31 refs. (Translated from Muanyag

es Gumi, No.7, 2000, p.249)

EASTERN EUROPE; HUNGARY

Accession no.799375

Item 253Muanyag es Gumi

37, No.8, Aug.2000, p.287-92

Hungarian

NATURAL FIBRE REINFORCEDTHERMOPLASTIC POLYMERS. PART III.WATER UPTAKE OF COMPOSITES AND ITSEFFECT ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIESHargitai H; Racz I

Composites were prepared from flax fibres with different

moisture contents, using different amounts of

polypropylene grafted with maleic anhydride as the

binding component. The water uptake of the composites

and its effects on three-point bending and Izod impact

properties were tested. 7 refs. Articles from this journal

can be requested for translation by subscribers to the Rapra

produced International Polymer Science and Technology.

Accession no.797712


8, No.7, 2000, p.489-95

TENSILE AND FLEXURAL BEHAVIOUR OFSUGAR CANE BAGASSE WASTE REINFORCEDEVA MATRIX COMPOSITESStael G C; Tavares M I B; d’Almeida J R M



The use of EVA as a matrix in natural fibre-reinforced

composite materials is evaluated. In particular, the

mechanical behaviour of chopped bagasse-EVA matrix

composites is studied and compared to that of more

common thermoplastic matrix composites such as PP and

PE, and wood based materials. The tensile and flexural

behaviour of the composites were measured as a function

of the volume fraction and size of the reinforcement and

the values obtained were compared to those of commonly

used agglomerates and plywood. Results show that EVA

composites could compete with low density wood-based

materials. 25 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.797602

Item 255Materiaux & Techniques

Nos.7-8, 2000, p.63-8

PROCESSING AND CHARACTERISATION OFNEW THERMOSET NANOCOMPOSITE BASEDON CELLULOSE WHISKERSRuiz M M; Cavaille J Y; Dufresne A; Gerard J F;

Graillat C

CERMAV-CNRS; LCPP-CNRS; Lyon,Institut National

des Sciences Appliquees

The processing and the mechanical properties of new

nanocomposites prepared from aqueous suspensions of

microcrystalline cellulose fillers and thermoset epoxy are

described. The nature of cellulose fibres, which display a

large shape factor and the capability to be associated by

means of H-bonds implies that the processing method

chosen avoids the problem of a high level of viscosity of

the epoxy reactive system-whiskers mixture. The

reinforcing effect of this type of natural fibres in an epoxy

matrix is shown from the dynamic mechanical properties

in the rubbery state. This unusual reinforcement is due to

the strong interactions existing between the cellulose

whiskers and the epoxy network and the creation of a

percolating network linked by H-bonds between cellulose

fibres. The existence of such a percolation effect is

evidenced from the analysis of the rubbery shear modulus

of nanocomposites based on various volume fractions of



whiskers with mechanical modelling, such as Halpin-

Kardos and percolation approaches. 25 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.796790


90, No.11, Nov.2000, p.23-4

English; German

HEAVY DOOR TRIM PANELS... ARE THINGSOF THE PASTFries K W; Augustin S; Muller H; Leyrer H; Russ S

Hennecke GmbH; Drazlmaier Gruppe

The low density of natural fibres can be exploited to

produce lightweight door panels. Economical production

techniques will allow such parts to become established

in the automotive industry. 2 refs. (Translated from

Kunstoffe 90, 2000, p.60/3).


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.796769

Item 257SAMPE Journal

36, No.6, Nov./Dec.2000, p.18-23

NATURAL FIBRE COMPOSITES: WHERE CANFLAX COMPETE WITH GLASS?Brouwer W D

Delft,University of Technology

The properties of natural fibres, including bast fibres,

leaf fibres and seed fibres, are outlined and the

advantages and disadvantages of the use of natural fibres

in composites are discussed. The Dutch Biolicht project,

which examined the feasibility of using natural fibre

composites in the trailers, coachwork and bus industry,

is described. Pretreatment of the fibres, particularly that

of flax, are discussed, including impregnation with

thermosets, thermoplastics or biological materials,

drying and degassing. Processing techniques are

described, including resin transfer moulding and vacuum

injection, sheet moulding compounds and vacuum

pressing. 4 refs.



Accession no.795947

Item 258Polymer Degradation and Stability

70, No.2, Nov.2000, p.135-45

ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION OF WOOD-HDPE COMPOSITELi R

Sydney,University; New South Wales,University

Wood flake reinforced post-consumer HDPE composites

were produced using a flake-start technology and the

feasibility of using these composites as a replacement for

conventional particleboard evaluated by means of long-

term weathering tests. Samples were weathered outdoors

for 205 days and changes in their morphology investigated

during weathering using microscopy. The effect of

weathering on the fracture toughness and flexural, tensile

and impact properties of the composites were also

examined as was the seasonal influence on degradation.

Dynamic mechanical analysis was utilised to monitor the

effects of UV exposure, heat or oxidation on samples aged

at 37, 67 and 88C. 8 refs.

AUSTRALIA

Accession no.795253


30, No.11, Nov.2000, p.18

SCRAP CAR LAW IS CRITICIZED BYEUROPE’S COMPOSITES INDUSTRY

The European Union’s End of Life Vehicles directive sets

high quotas for materials recycling in end-of-life vehicles,

but limits amounts which can be incinerated with energy

recovery. Reinforced plastics suppliers and processors

claim that the law, by not differentiating between

materials, will hinder the fast-growing use of parts

containing natural fibres in automotive parts. AVK-TV

argues that recovering materials from natural fibre-

reinforced parts is neither cost-effective nor

environmentally friendly. These parts would serve the

most good after their useful life by being incinerated for

energy recovery, as natural fibre fillers burn easily and

create significant heat energy.

AVK-TVEU; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;

WESTERN EUROPE-GENERAL

Accession no.795179


60, No.15, 2000, p.2857-63

EFFECTS OF CORONA DISCHARGE AND UVTREATMENT ON THE PROPERTIES OF JUTE-FIBRE EPOXY COMPOSITESGassan J; Gutowski V S

Kassel,Universitat; Australia,CSIRO

The results are reported of a study of the effects of corona

discharge treatment and UV treatment on jute fibres and

yarns and on the physical properties of the fibres, yarns

and their composites with an epoxy resin. Measurements

were made of the contact angles of the fibres and yarns

and the surface free energy components of the fibres

calculated using an equation developed by Owens and

Wendt. The mechanical properties of the composites were

determined by tensile and three-point bending tests and

their dynamic-thermal properties were obtained by means

of DMTA over the temperature range between 50 and

120C. 21 refs.



AUSTRALIA; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;

GERMANY; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.794663

Item 261Sao Carlos, Brazil, EMBRAPA, 2000, pp.x,593. 29cms.

7/11/00

NATURAL POLYMERS AND COMPOSITES.PROCEEDINGS OF THE 3RD INTERNATIONALSYMPOSIUM AND THE WORKSHOP ONPROGRESS IN PRODUCTION ANDPROCESSING OF CELLULOSIC FIBRES ANDNATURAL POLYMERS HELD SAO PEDRO,BRAZIL, 14TH-17TH MAY 2000EMBRAPA; UNESP; USP


This collection of papers focus on the latest technologies

and new concepts available worldwide in the field of

natural polymers and composites. Main sessions examine

natural polymers and fibres, polysaccharides, lignins and

derivatives, biobased polymers, and composites. The final

session looks progress in production and processing of

cellulose fibres and natural polymers.

Accession no.793777


3rd Nov.2000, p.18

DAVIS-STANDARD REPORTS WOODENTHUSIASM

It is briefly reported that the UK division of Davis-

Standard claims a high level of interest in the wood

extrusion system introduced by its US parent at NPE last

year. The twin-screw Woodtruder technology allows wood

mill waste to be fed directly into a compounding system

without pre-drying to produce a dense polymer/wood fibre

composite profile. Formulations can be developed

containing up to 80% wood scrap, with applications seen

in a wide range of traditional timber products.

DAVIS-STANDARDEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.792628


20, No.1, 2001, p.65-75

EFFECT OF ACETYLATION AND COUPLINGAGENT TREATMENTS UPON BIOLOGICALDEGRADATION OF PLANT FIBREREINFORCED POLYESTER COMPOSITESKhalil H P S A; Ismail H


Plant fibre-reinforced polyester resin composites were

manufactured using non-woven fibre mats of oil palm

empty fruit bunch and coconut fibres. The fibres were

treated by acetylation or with coupling agent (silane or

titanate). The results of biological tests on the fibre

composites were found to be dependent on fibre treatment.

Acetylation of fibres resulted in superior bioresistance,

followed by silane-treated fibres, in soil tests for up to 12

months exposure. Titanate and unmodified fibre

composites exhibited significant losses in tensile and

impact properties. 16 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.792599


20, No.1, 2001, p.33-41

EFFECTS OF PARTIAL REPLACEMENT OF OILPALM WOOD FLOUR BY SILICA AND SILANECOUPLING AGENT ON PROPERTIES OFNATURAL RUBBER COMPOUNDSIsmail H; Khalil H P S A


The effects of partial replacement of oil palm wood

flour(OPWF) by silica and of silane coupling agent on

mechanical properties and curing characteristics of NR

compounds were investigated. Comparison was made with

a control compound (50 phr of OPWF, without coupling

agent) and it was found that increase of the silica in the

weight ratio of OPWF/silica and addition of silane coupling

agent increased the scorch time and cure time and enhanced

the TS, tensile modulus, tear strength, fatigue life and

hardness. The results from maximum torque-minimum

torque studies indicated that the rubber-filler interaction

was improved by partial replacement of OPWF by silica

and the presence of silane coupling agent. 12 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.792595

Item 265Automotive Engineering

108, No.9, Sept.2000, p.106

NEW POLYMERS FOR INTERIORAPPLICATIONSBroge J L

This article looks at two new innovative polymer materials

developed by Lear Corp. of the USA, for use in

automotive interior trim products, including door panels,

pillars, and boot trim. Details are given of the new natural

fibre acrylic, and natural fibre PP.

LEAR CORP.USA

Accession no.792054


12, No.30, 25th Sept.2000, p.4

JOHNSON CONTROLS HITS NEW HIGH WITHIDEA



Miel R

It is reported in this article that Johnson Controls Inc. of

the USA is now using a hemp and kenaf natural fibre

biocomposite as a substrate in door trim panels for a

DaimlerChrysler vehicle. The parts are made of a blend

of 50 percent PP, 25 percent hemp, and 25 percent kenaf.

Full details are given.

JOHNSON CONTROLS INC.;

DAIMLERCHRYSLER AGCANADA; USA

Accession no.791656

Item 267Polymer International

49, No.11, Nov. 2000, p.1444-51

FT-IR MICROSCOPIC STUDIES ON COUPLINGAGENTS. TREATED NATURAL FIBRESSingh B; Gupta M; Verma A; Tyagi O S

India,Central Building Research Institute; Indian

Institute of Petroleum

The nature of adsorbed coupling agents on sisal fibre

surfaces was analysed by FTIR. The presence of

precipitated oligomers on the surface was confirmed by

the appearance of hydrogen-bonded carbonyl group and

unsaturation bands. Results of surface morphology,

adsorption depth profile and extent of hydrophilicity using

vibrational spectra. 21 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.791557

Item 268Polymer International

49, No.11, Nov. 2000, p.1273-8

EFFECT OF COUPLING AGENTS ON THEMECHANICAL AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIESOF OIL PALM EMPTY FRUIT BUNCH-POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESRozman H D; Lai C Y; Ismail H; Ishak Z A M


Oil palm empty fruit bunch-PP composites were produced

using a twin-screw extruder. Maleic anhydride-modified

PP, polyphenyl isocyanate, and trimethoxysilylpropyl

methacrylate were used as coupling agents. Data are

presented for water absorption, swelling and mechanical


MALAYSIA

Accession no.791534


78, No.9, 28th Nov.2000, p.1671-9

NOVEL LOW-COST JUTE-POLYESTERCOMPOSITES. III. WEATHERING ANDTHERMAL BEHAVIOURDash B N; Rana A; Kmishra H K; Nayak S K; Tripathy S S

Salipur College; Indian Jute Industries’ Research Assn.;

Vedvyas College; India,Central Institute of Plastics

Engng.& Tech.; Ravenshaw College

Jute-polyester composites are fabricated with untreated

(control) and bleached slivers with 60% loading of fibre

by weight and are designated as JPH(C) and JPH(B),

respectively. Both types of composite specimens are

subjected to water absorption and outdoor weathering tests

to assess their relative performance under environmental

conditions. While both composites show low water

absorption, JPH(B) shows lesser water absorption (8.48%)

than JPH(C) (12.25%). Mechanical properties are measured

for both the weathered and unweathered specimens and

compared. The tensile strength of JPH(C) and JPH(B)

decreases while the tensile modulus increases after

weathering. The flexural strength, moduli and ILSS of

weathered specimens are less than those of unweathered

ones. The nature of the fibre-matrix adhesion can be

established from these results. The cause of every

observation is explained. Thermal analyses of the composite

specimens are also carried out. Overall thermal stability of

JPH(C) is found to be better than that of JPH(B). 27 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.791439

Item 270Polymer

42, No.2, 2001, p.815-25

MODIFIED WOODFLOUR AS THERMOSETFILLERS. I. EFFECT OF THE CHEMICALMODIFICATION AND PERCENTAGE OFFILLER ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIESMarcovich N E; Aranguren M I; Reboredo M M


Composites were prepared from an unsaturated polyester/

styrene thermoset matrix and esterified wood flour and

were tested. Different degrees of esterification of the wood

particles with maleic anhydride were obtained by using

different times of reaction, which led to materials with

varied final properties. Water absorption performed on

treated particles indicated that they were more

hydrophobic than the untreated ones. Flexural,

compression and dynamic mechanical tests were

performed on composites to determine the optimum level

of chemical modification of the wood flour. The

relationship between the filler content and the composite

final properties was also studied for a selected filler

treatment. An important increment in particle dispersion

was obtained by modifying the wood flour with maleic

anhydride. 19 refs.

ARGENTINA

Accession no.791291


40, No.10, Oct.2000, p.2194-204



EFFECTS OF REINFORCING FIBRES ON THECRYSTALLISATION OF POLYPROPYLENELopez Manchado M A; Biagiotti J; Torre L; Kenny J M

Perugia,University

The results are reported of a study of the effects of the

addition of various fibres, including PETP, aramid, sisal

and glass fibres, on the crystallisation kinetics and

thermodynamics of isotactic PP carried out using DSC

under isothermal and constant cooling rate conditions and

optical microscopy. The values of the Avrami exponent,

kinetic constant of the crystallisation rate and the half-

time of crystallisation for composites containing the

different fibres are compared and the spherulitic growth

and transcrystallinity of PP and its composites evaluated

by taking photomicrographs at different intervals of time.

The fibres were found to behave as nucleating agents. 31

refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.790462


27, No.8, 2000, p.T/75-84

NATURAL FIBRE REINFORCED POLYMERSMAKE A COMEBACKBledzki A K; Gassan J; Lucka M

Szczecin,Polytechnic

The environmental benefits of using natural fibre reinforced

plastics are examined with respect to the use of vegetable

and plant fibres as renewable sources. Characteristics of

natural fibres of vegetable origin are discussed with

reference to chemical composition and physical structure,

and mechanical properties are compared to those of glass

and aramid fibres. Techniques for the production of

composites reinforced with natural vegetable fibres are

described, and examples are given of applications in various

countries. The effect of structural and surface modification

of vegetable fibres on the mechanical properties of such

composites is also discussed. 19 refs. Translation of

Polimery, No.2, 2000, p.98.


Accession no.790305


6, No.3, Sept.2000, p.153-7

EFFECTS OF IMPACT MODIFIERS ON THEPROPERTIES OF RIGID PVC/WOOD-FIBERCOMPOSITESMengeloglu F; Matuana L M; King J A


The effects of impact modifier types and addition levels

on the mechanical properties of rigid PVC/wood-fibre

composites were examined. The impact resistance of rigid

PVC/wood-fibre composites was found to be strongly

dependent on the type and content of impact modifier.

With proper choice of modifier type and concentration,

the impact strength of rigid PVC/wood-fibre composites

could be significantly improved without degrading the

tensile properties. Methacrylate-butadiene-styrene and all-

acrylic modifiers performed in a similar manner and were

more effective and efficient in improving the impact

resistance of rigid PVC/wood-fibre composites than the

chlorinated PE modifier. 27 refs.

USA

Accession no.788891


Manufacturing

31A, No.11, 2000, p.1231-40

RHEOLOGICAL BEHAVIOR OF SHORT SISALFIBER-REINFORCED POLYSTYRENECOMPOSITESNair K C M; Kumar R P; Thomas S; Schit S C;

Ramamurthy K

Mahatma Gandhi,University; India,Central Institute of

Plastics Engng.& Tech.

The rheological behaviour of short sisal fibre-reinforced

PS composites was studied using an Instron capillary

rheometer. The effect of fibre length, fibre loading, shear

rate, shear stress and temp. on the rheological behaviour

of the composites was studied. Unlike other short fibre-

reinforced thermoplastics at lower temp., the melt

viscosity of PS-sisal composites was lower than that at

higher temps. At 180C, the viscosity of the composite

was governed by wall-slip, which decreased the viscosity,

and at 190C the viscosity was governed by fibre melt

interaction that increased the viscosity. The morphology

of the extrudate was studied using optical and electron

microscopy. 16 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.788825


39, No.4, 2000, p.743-55

TENSILE PROPERTIES OF JUTE YARNSIMPROVED WITH ORGANO-METALLICCOMPLEXESHassiruzzaman; Akhtar F; Khan M A; Ali K M I

Bangladesh,Atomic Energy Commission

Several formulations were prepared with oligomer

urethane acrylate(Ebcryl 264) combined with a diluent

monomer of different acrylated functionalities in the

presence of a plasticiser, an antibubbling agent, ligands

and organometallic complexes. The complexes were made

with benzohydroxamato-pyridine complex and

benzohydroxamato-ethylenediamine in the presence of

titanium dioxide. Thin polymer films were prepared under

UV radiation with these solutions and were characterised.



A jute-plastic composite was prepared with these solutions

under UV radiation. The tenacity of the treated jute was

increased by about 25% with reduced water absorption

ability but the presence of a very small amount (0.1%) of

an organometallic complex in the formulation also

enhanced jute tenacity up to 223%. The effect of the

ligands on these properties was also investigated. 10 refs.

UCBBANGLADESH

Accession no.788819


60, No.11, Aug./Sept.2000, p.2037-55

SISAL FIBRE AND ITS COMPOSITES: AREVIEW OF RECENT DEVELOPMENTSYan Li; Yiu-Wing Mai; Lin Ye

Sydney,University

A summary is presented of recent developments (1987-

1998) of sisal fibre and its composites. The properties of

the sisal fibre itself, the modification of the interface

between sisal fibre and matrix, and the properties of sisal

fibre-reinforced composites and their hybrid composites

are reviewed. 70 refs.

AUSTRALIA

Accession no.788781


7, No.2, 2000, p.117-31

PROCESSING AND CHARACTERISATION OFNEW THERMOSET NANOCOMPOSITES BASEDON CELLULOSE WHISKERSRiuz M M; Cavaille J Y; Dufresne A; Gerard J F;

Graillat C

Institut National des Sciences Appliquees; CNRS;

Lyon,Ecole Superieure de Chemie Physique

Electronique

The processing and the mechanical properties of new

thermoset nanocomposites prepared from aqueous

suspensions of microcrystalline cellulose fillers and

epoxy are described. The nature of cellulose fibres which

display a large aspect ratio and the ability to associate

by means of H-bonds implies that the processing method

chosen avoids the problem of a high level of viscosity

of the epoxy reactive system-whiskers mixture. The

reinforcing effect of this type of natural fibre in an epoxy

matrix is mainly shown from the dynamic mechanical

properties in the rubbery state. This unusual

reinforcement is due to the strong interactions existing

between the cellulose whiskers and the epoxy network,

and the creation of a percolating network linked by H-

bonds between cellulose fibres. The existence of such a

percolation effect is evidenced from the analysis of the

rubbery shear modulus of nanocomposites based on

various volume fractions of whiskers with mechanical

modelling such as Halpin-Kardos and percolation

approaches. 30 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.786900


7, No.2, 2000, p.103-15

EFFECT OF SILICONE INTERPHASE ON THEMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF FLAX-POLYURETHANE COMPOSITESGassan J; Dietz T; Bledzki A

Kassel,Universitat

Flax fibres coated with two types and various amounts of

silicones are used to make flax-PU composites. Coating

conditions are found to affect strongly the composite

properties. The effect of these two types and different

amounts of silicone on the impact toughness, flexural

strength and modulus, dynamic modulus and loss-energy

and notch sensitivity is determined. These properties are

compared with results of composites with a strong fibre-

matrix adhesion. 30 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.786899


7, No.2, 2000, p.81-92

INVESTIGATING INTERPHASEDEVELOPMENT IN WOOD-POLYMERCOMPOSITES BY INVERSE GASCHROMATOGRAPHYRials T G; Simonsen J

USDA; Oregon,State University

The influence of secondary interactions on the development

of interfacial structure in composites of wood and

amorphous thermoplastic polymers is not well understood.

Inverse gas chromatography is used to investigate the effect

of different polymers on the surface energy of partially or

fully coated white pine wood meal. In this way, the

development of the interphase is monitored as a function

of polymer depth on the wood surface. The polymers are

selected to provide a range of functional groups and include

PS, PMMA, PVC, polymethacrylic acid and

polymethacrylonitrile. The overall variation of the

dispersive component of the surface energy and the ratio

of acceptor to donor coefficients appear to group themselves

into two categories based upon the polarity of the polymer’s

functional groups. In addition, the high loadings required

for stabilisation of the less polar polymers suggest that a

relatively large volume of the matrix phase isaffected by

the wood filler. 20 refs.

USA

Accession no.786897




77, No.13, 23rd Sept.2000, p.2963-7

EFFECT OF MALEIC ANHYDRIDETREATMENT ON STEAM AND WATERABSORPTION OF WOOD POLYMERCOMPOSITES PREPARED FROM WHEATSTRAW, CANE BAGASSE, AND TEAK WOODSAWDUST USING NOVOLAC AS MATRIXPatil Y P; Gajre B; Dusane D; Chavan S; Mishra S

North Maharashtra,University

Wheat straw, cane bagasse and teak sawdust (agricultural

waste materials) were sieved up to a 425 micrometre mesh

size and used for sheet preparation, with and without

maleic anhydride(MA) treatment, using novolac resin in

a 50:50 w/w ratio. The shore D hardness of MA treated

and untreated wood polymer composites(WPCs) was

measured. The MA treated WPCs showed two to three

times more hardness than that of the untreated respective

WPCs. Moisture absorption had a detrimental effect on

the mechanical properties of the WPCs. MA treatment

restricted swelling and water and steam absorption in the

agricultural waste materials. Teak sawdust showed the

best results of the three WPCs in all respects. 18 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.786225


78, No.3, 17th Oct.2000 p.603-8

EFFECT OF DIFFERENT TREATMENTS ONTHE THERMAL BEHAVIOR OF REINFORCEDPHENOL-FORMALDEHYDE POLYMERCOMPOSITESAgarwal R; Saxena N S; Sharma K B; Thomas S;

Sreekala M S

Rajasthan,University; Mahatma Gandhi,University;

India,Rubber Research Institute

Analysis was carried out on the thermal behaviour of oil

palm fibre-reinforced phenol-formaldehyde (PF) resins

with different chemical treatments using differential

scanning calorimetry (DSC). A well-defined peak of

crystallisation was identified in all the samples. However,

in one sample a second exothermic peak also emerged,

which indicates some structural changes at high

temperature. Studies of crystallisation kinetics were

carried out in terms of activation energy of crystallisation,

dimensionality of growth and stability using various

recent theories developed for nonisothermal

crystallisation. The results suggest surface nucleation and

crystallisation through one-dimensional growth. Thermal

stability of PF composites increases after chemical

treatment, and is maximum for resin treated with peroxide

PF composite in comparison to fibre-treated PF


Accession no.786100


78, No.3, 17th Oct.2000 p.495-506

IMPROVEMENT OF FUNCTIONALPROPERTIES OF JUTE-BASED COMPOSITE BYACRYLONITRILE PRETREATMENTSaha A K; Das S; Basak R K; Bhatta D; Mitra B C

Indian Jute Industries’ Research Assn.;

Uktal,University; India,National Institute of Research

on Jute and Allied Fibre Technology

Cyanoethylation of jute fibre in the form of nonwoven

fabric was successfully achieved using an acrylonitrile

monomer which is claimed to react with the hydroxyl

groups of fibre constituents. The degrees of

cyanoethylation to different extents were carried out by

varying the reaction time. That extent of cyanoethylation

rises with increase in the reaction time was shown by

an IR study. Cyanoethylated fibres thus obtained were

further treated with unsaturated polyester resin to obtain

modified fibre composites. These composites have been

found to be tolerant against cold and boiling water where

water absorption and thickness swelling are much

reduced compared to those of unmodified fibre

composite. The moisture content of the modified fibre

composites is also significantly reduced. Cyclic tests

indicate that use of cyanoethylated fibre leads to

improvement of the dimensional stability of the fibre

composites. The mechanical properties of the modified

fibre composites improved substantially because of

better bonding at the fibre-matrix interface and this effect

is more pronounced with a higher degree of

cyanoethylation. A scanning electron micrograph of the

fractured surfaces of cyanoethylated jute composite

showed excellent retention of resin on broken fibre ends,

whereas the unmodified composite showed uncoated

fibres and holes in the matrix. That the moisture content

of the composites reduces with increase of the

cyanoethylation was shown by DSC analysis. Both TG

and DSC thermograms showed an additional peak due

to decomposition of cyanoethyl group which is shifted

to a higher value with the extent of cyanoethylation.

However, the cellulose degradation temperature

remained almost unchanged. 26 refs.

Accession no.786088

Item 283Advanced Materials & Processes

158, No.2, Aug.2000, p.15-6

NATURAL FIBERS REINFORCE ACRYLIC ANDPOLYPROPYLENE

The use is briefly described of natural fibre reinforced

plastics in automotive applications such as interior door

panels, by Lear Corp. of Sweden. The company is using

kenaf, hemp and jute reinforced PP and flax reinforced

acrylic. In addition, a one-step process for manufacturing

has also been developed, in which the fibre-reinforced

PP is covered with the surface material in one step.



LEAR CORP.EUROPEAN UNION; SCANDINAVIA; SWEDEN; WESTERN

EUROPE

Accession no.785643

Item 284Canadian Plastics

58, No.7, July 2000, p.9

NEW COMPANY TO CHALLENGE HARDWOODFLOORING WITH PLASTIC-WOODFIBRECOMPOSITE

SHW Technologies has developed Synthetic Hardwood

flooring made of oriented polymers and hardwood fibre

that is an affordable, water resistant alternative to

hardwood and laminate flooring. The extrusion orientation

process mixes PP and woodfibre to produce flooring

which is impermeable to water, resistant to fungus and

insects and has a PU finish. A plant in Guelph, Ontario

will be completed by September and production is

expected to reach an annual production capacity of 3

million square feet of flooring within twelve months.

SHW TECHNOLOGIES INC.CANADA

Accession no.785040


77, No.14, 29th Sept.2000, p.3035-43

CHEMICAL MODIFICATION OF PINEAPPLELEAF FIBER: GRAFT COPOLYMERISATIONOF ACRYLONITRILE ONTO DEFATTED LEAFFIBERSMohanty A K; Tripathy P C; Misra M; Parija S; Sahoo

S

Berlin,Technical University; Orissa,Ravenshaw College

A copper sulphate/potassium periodate combination was

used as an initiator for the graft copolymerisation of

acrylonitrile onto defatted pineapple leaf fibre (PALF), a

lignocellulosic fibre. The reaction was carried out in an

aqueous medium at 30-50C. The results showed that a

combination of cupric ions and periodate ions, with

concentrations of periodate ions and cupric ions of 0.005

mol/L and 0.002 mol/L respectively, produced optimum

grafting with 0.1 g defatted PALF with a fibre-to-liquor

ratio of 1:50 at 50C for 2 h. Neither potassium periodate

nor copper sulphate alone was able to induce the graft

copolymerisation of acrylonitrile on to the PALF surface.

Grafting improved the thermal stability of PALF. 24 refs.


INDIA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.784880


60, No.7, May/June 2000, p.1115-24

SURFACE MODIFICATION OF JUTE AND ITS

INFLUENCE ON PERFORMANCE OFBIODEGRADABLE JUTE-FABRIC/BIOPOLCOMPOSITESMohanty A K; Khan M A; Hinrichsen G


Surface modifications of two varieties of jute fabrics, i.e.

hessian cloth (HC) and carpet backing cloth (CBC),

involving dewaxing, alkali treatment, cyanoethylation and

grafting, are made with a view to their use as reinforcing

agents in composites based on a biodegradable polymeric

matrix, Biopol. The chemically treated fabrics are

characterised by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy

and thermogravimetric analysis. The effects of different

fibre surface treatments and amounts of fabrics on the

performance of the resulting composites are investigated.

Mechanical properties such as tensile strength, bending

strength and impact strength increase in comparison to

pure Biopol as a result of reinforcement with jute fabrics.

More than 50% enhancement in tensile strength, 30% in

bending strength and 90% in impact strength of the

composites relative to pure Biopol sheets are observed

under the present experimental conditions. Scanning

electron microscopy investigations show that surface

modifications improve the fibre/matrix adhesion. From

degradation studies it is found that after 150 days of

compost burial more than 50% weight loss of the jute/

Biopol composite occurs. 14 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.784161


60, No.9, July 2000, p.1737-51

MORPHOLOGY AND MELT RHEOLOGICALBEHAVIOUR OF SHORT-SISAL-FIBRE-REINFORCED SBR COMPOSITESKumar R P; Nair K C M; Thomas S; Schit S C;

Ramamurthy K

Mahatma Gandhi,University; India,Central Institute of

Plastics Engng.& Tech.

The melt flow behaviour of untreated and treated short-

sisal-fibre-reinforced SBR composites is analysed by

using an Instron capillary rheometer. The effects of fibre

breakage, length concentration and shear rate/stress on

melt viscosity are studied. The fibre breakage is analysed

before and after extrusion and the polydispersity index

(PDI) estimated. It is found that these composites behave

as pseudo-plastic materials. At low shear rates, the short

fibres increase the viscosity much more than at high shear

rates. There is an increase in viscosity upon chemical

treatments owing to the strong interfacial adhesion

between the fibre and the rubber matrix. The dependence

of viscosity on temperature, flow behaviour index, n’,

melt elasticity, extrudate distortion and deformation of

these composites is analysed. Finally, die-swell

measurements are carried out to understand the elastic



effects. The extruded samples are analysed by optical and

electron microscopy in order to study the surface

morphology and extrudate deformation of these


INDIA

Accession no.784021


60, No.9, July 2000, p.1729-35

COMPATIBILISING EFFECT OF MALEICANHYDRIDE ON SWELLING ANDMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF PLANT FIBRE-REINFORCED NOVALAC COMPOSITESMishra S; Naik J B; Patil Y P

North Maharashtra,University

Fibres of banana hemp and sisal are used as fillers in

novolac resin. These fibres are esterified with maleic

anhydride and the effects of maleic anhydride on the

swelling and mechanical properties of plant fibre polymer

composites assessed. Higher absorption of steam and

water is observed in untreated fibre composites. Young’s

modulus increases with an increase in fibre content up to

45 and 50% in untreated and MA treated fibre composites,

respectively. The impact strength and shore D hardness

are found to be higher in maleic anhydride-treated fibre

composites than the untreated-fibre composites. 25 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.784020


19, No.13, 1st July 2000, p.1155-7

EFFECT OF GAMMA-IRRADIATION ON THESHORT BEAM SHEAR BEHAVIOUR OFPULTRUDED SISAL-FIBRE/GLASS-FIBRE/POLYESTER HYBRID COMPOSITESTsang F F Y; Jin Y Z; Yu K N; Wu C M L; Li R K Y

Hong Kong,City University

Pultrusion has been accepted as an effective and versatile

technique for the production of continuous fibre-

reinforced composites with constant profile cross-section.

Fillers such as calcium carbonate, hollow glass

microspheres, liquid rubber are quite often added to

reduce materials cost and to improve impact resistance.

One possible class of filler for pultruded GRP is natural

cellulosic fibres. Cellulose-based natural fibres are used

as reinforcing fillers in polymeric matrix composites for

their low cost and attractive specific properties. The

microstructures of sisal fibres are very different from those

of synthetic fibres. A sisal fibre is not a single fibre but is

made up of a bundle of tubular micro-fibres of diameter.

The cell wall of a tubular microfibre has a composite

structure of lignocellulosic material reinforced by helical

microfibrillar bands of cellulose. The cell walls are, in

turn, covered by a layer of bonding material that separates

one micro-fibre from another. The major problem in using

sisal fibre in polymer matrix composite is poor interfacial

bonding. The general approach to improve the interfacial

bonding between sisal fibre and polymer matrix includes

mercerisation, heat treatment and coupling agent coating.

In the mercerisation process, some of the lignin phase is

dissolved away by the alkali solution, giving a

corresponding increase in the density of the treated sisal

fibres. For heat treated sisal fibres, the crystallinity of the

cellulosic micro-fibres will be increased as determined

by X-ray diffraction. The effect of gamma-irradiation

treatment on the short beam shear behaviour of a sisal-

fibre/glass-fibre/polyester hybrid composite produced by

pultrusion is investigated. 8 refs.

HONG KONG

Accession no.783947


69, No.3, Sept.2000, p.261-5

EVALUATION OF OPTIMUM GRAFTINGPARAMETERS AND THE EFFECT OF CERICION INITIATED GRAFTING OF METHYLMETHACRYLATE ON TO JUTE FIBRE ON THEKINETICS OF THERMAL DEGRADATION ANDSWELLING BEHAVIOURChauhan G S; Bhatt S S; Kaur I; Singha A S; Kaith B S

Himachal Pradesh,University; Hamirpur Regional

Engineering College

To effect useful changes in jute fibre it was graft

copolymerised with MMA initiated by ceric ions and

optimisation of grafting parameters studied as a function

of various reaction conditions. Jute and its graft copolymer

thermally degrade in one and two stages, respectively,

but following the same degradation mechanism. The

degradation mechanism and thermal kinetics were

evaluated by applying seven kinetic degradation models.

Both fibres decompose following the R-2 (PBR-

cylindrical symmetry) kinetic equation. Initially, the

thermal stability of the graft copolymer is better, as evident

from higher energy of activation and higher initial

decomposition temperature. Swelling (Ps) of graft

copolymers increases as a function of grafting and at a

particular graft level follows the order: DMF greater than

H2O greater than iso-propanol. 23 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.783819

Item 291ACS Polymeric Materials: Science &

Engineering.Spring Meeting 2000.Volume

82.Conference proceedings.

San Francisco, Ca., 26th-30th March 2000, p.29-30

NATURAL FIBRE REINFORCEDBIODEGRADABLE MATRIX COMPOSITE:EFFECT OF SURFACE MODIFICATIONS OFJUTE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF JUTE-



BIOPOL COMPOSITESMohanty A K; Khan M A; Misra M; Hinrichsen G


(ACS,Div.of Polymeric Materials Science & Engng.)

The influence of surface modifications (dewaxing, 5%

alkali treatment and the grafting of acrylonitrile) of jute

fibre in jute-reinforced Biopol biodegradable

composites was investigated. Significant increases in

both tensile and flexural strength of the composites

were observed following the surface treatment. The

biodegradability was assessed using a synthetic

municipal solid waste burial test, the weight loss

increasing with time. After 180 days, the pure Biopol

had a weight loss of 44%, the composite containing

dewaxed fibre a loss of 56.6%, and the composite

containing the acrylonitrile-grafted fibre a loss of

41.2%. The lower degradation rate of the grafted

material was attributed to the non-biodegradable nature

of the grafted polyacrylonitrile. 8 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.782844

Item 292Reinforced Plastics

44, No.7-8, July-Aug.2000, p.19

GREEN COMPOSITES FOR CAR INTERIORS

Lear has introduced two environmentally friendlypolymer materials for use in vehicle interior trim products,

it is briefly reported. The polymer materials contain up

to 70% of natural fibre obtained from plants that are

sustainable and can be easily recycled. A natural fibre

acrylic polymer has been developed for automotive door

panel trim, package tray and trunk applications. The

natural fibre PP has improved mechanical properties

through the use of coupling agents to enhance the

chemical bonding between the fibre and polymer.

LEAR CORP.USA

Accession no.780201


No.1845, 14th July 2000, p.10

COMPOUNDERS GO FOR WOODSmith C

Wood-filled plastics is one of the hottest markets in the

building sector. The US lumber industry is currently

leading the move towards extruded wood products, driven

largely by the construction industry’s demand for decking

and sidings. Cincinnati Extrusion hopes to become a

significant player in this sector and has developed a wood

extrusion system of its own, which is claimed to be able

to handle composites with wood contents of up to 85%.

Davis-Standard has shown a newly developed direct

compounding and extrusion line for wood products. Its

new Woodtruder technology is said to be able to process

a wet wood feed.

USA

Accession no.780132


19, No.4, 2000, p.419-428

STATISTICAL EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN ANDMODELING OF POLYPROPYLENE-WOODFIBER COMPOSITESCosta T H S; Carvalho D L; Souza D S C; Coutinho F

M B; Pinto J C; Kokta B V

UFRJ; Quebec,Universite A Trois-Rivieres

Maleated propylene coating of vinyl-tris(2-methoxy

ethoxy)silane treated wood fibres, their matrix type and

relative composition influences the tensile and flexural

behaviour of the composite. The effects of the variables

were studied and an analysis of variance of the

experimental and predicted data indicated that constructed

models provided a fair approximation of the actual

measurements. Empirical models to produce optimum

composites were discussed. 12 refs.

BRAZIL; CANADA

Accession no.779578


19, No.11, 1st June 2000, p.979-80

STIFFNESS PREDICTION OF FLAX FIBERS-EPOXY COMPOSITE MATERIALSLamy B; Baley C

Nantes,Ecole Centrale

Details are given of an investigation of the mechanical

properties of flax fibre-reinforced epoxy resins. The

effects of defects and dispersion in geometry of the fibres

on the mechanical properties are discussed. 3 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.778981


35, No.10, 15th May 2000, p.2589-95

EFFECT OF CHEMICAL MODIFICATION ONTHE PERFORMANCE OF BIODEGRADABLEJUTE YARN-BIOPOL COMPOSITESMohanty A K; Khan M A; Sahoo S; Hinrichsen G


Details are given of the preparation of jute fibre-reinforced

hydroxybutyrate-hydroxyvalerate copolymers by a hot-

press moulding technique. The effects of temperature,

yarn amount, chemical modification, alkali treatment,

graft copolymerisation, and orientation of yarn winding

on the performance of the resulting composites were



investigated. Properties were compared with those of the

pure copolymer. 19 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.778953


Vols.276-277, March 2000, p.51-8

INFLUENCE OF COMPATIBILISERS ONSURFACE HARDNESS WATER UPTAKE ANDMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OFPOLYPROPYLENE WOOD FLOURCOMPOSITES PREPARED BY REACTIVEEXTRUSIONNitz H; Reichert P; Romling H; Mulhaupt R


Anisotropic wood flour (WF) particles, composed of fibre

bundles, are melt compounded in a twin screw extruder at

200 deg.C together with PP in the presence of maleic

anhydride-grafted PP (PP-g-MA) and maleic anhydride-

grafted PS-block-PE-co-1-butene-block-PS (SEBS-g-MA).

Mechanical properties, surface hardness and water uptake

are monitored as a function of compound composition and

type of compatibiliser. PP/WF/SEBS-g-MA containing 30

vol.% (40 wt.%) WF and 3.5 vol.% (3 wt.%) SEBS-g-MA

gives Shore hardness of 78 with respect to 70 for PP and

increased simultaneously Young’s modulus (100%), yield

stress (20%) and notched Izod impact strength (24%).

SEBS-g-MA compatibiliser addition does not affect the

surface hardness but accounts for substantially reduced

water uptake and excellent interfacial adhesion. In

comparison, to talcum-filled PP, PP/WF/SEBS-g-MA

composites exhibit lower density combined with higher

specific strength, specific Young’s modulus and higher

surface hardness. WF particle as well as composite

morphologies are imaged by means of environmental

scanning electron microscopy (ESEM). 8 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.778217


Vols. 276-277,March 2000, p.1-24

BIOFIBRES, BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERSAND BIOCOMPOSITES: AN OVERVIEWMohanty A K; Misra M; Hinrichsen G


Due to increased environmental consciousness and

demands of legislative authorities, use and removal of

traditional composite structures, usually made of glass,

carbon or aramid fibres being reinforced with epoxy,

unsaturated polyester, or phenolics, are considered

critically. Recent advances in natural fibre development,

genetic engineering and composite science offer

significant opportunities for improved materials from

renewable resources with enhanced support for global

sustainability. The important feature of composite

materials is that they can be designed and tailored to meet

different requirements. As natural fibres are cheap and

biodegradable, the biodegradable composites from

biofibres and biodegradable polymers will render a

contribution in the 21st century due to serious

environmental problems. Biodegradable polymers have

offered scientists a possible solution to waste disposal

problems associated with traditional petrol petroleum

derived plastics. For scientists the real challenge lies in

finding applications which would consume sufficiently

large quantities of these materials to lead price reduction,

allowing biodegradable polymers to compete

economically in the market. Prices of biodegradable

polymers can be reduced on mass scale production; and

such mass scale production will be feasible through

constant R&D efforts of scientists to improve the

performance of biodegradable plastics. Manufacture of

biodegradable composites from such biodegradable

plastics will enhance the demand of such materials. The

structural aspects and properties of several biofibres and

biodegradable polymers, recent developments of different

biodegradable polymers and biocomposites are discussed.

254 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.778213


60, No.6, May 2000, p.833-44

EFFECT OF WETTABILITY AND AGEINGCONDITIONS ON THE PHYSICAL ANDMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF UNIAXIALLYORIENTED JUTE-ROVING-REINFORCEDPOLYESTER COMPOSITESde Albuquerque A C; Kuruvilla J; Hecker de Carvalho

L; Morais d’Almeida J R

Paraiba,Universidad Federal; Rio de Janeiro,Pontificia

Universidade Catolica

The tensile, flexural and impact behaviour of jute roving

reinforced polyester composites are investigated as a

function of fibre loading and fibre surface wettability. Two

types of unsaturated polyester, Resana (having a wetting

agent) and Elekeiroz (without wetting agent) are used.

49 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.777330

Item 300Polymer Process Engineering ’97. Conference

proceedings.

London, July 1997, p.202-13

INTEGRATED COMPOUNDING TECHNOLOGYFOR THE PREPARATION OF POLYMER



COMPOSITES CONTAINING WASTEMATERIALSBream C E; Hinrichsen E; Hornsby P R; Tarverdi K;

Williams K S

Brunel University


A novel twin-screw extrusion compounding process is

described for the preparation of polymer composites

containing low cost reinforcing additives derived from waste

products. The technology is exemplified using natural fibre

reinforcements, from agricultural sources and fibre-

reinforced thermoset scrap, added to a PP matrix. Central to

the method is the integration of a preparation step, which

through comminution controls the physical size and

morphology of the additive component. This is combined

with a treatment stage, which allows the surface chemistry

of the filler to be modified, thereby promoting interaction

with polymer during subsequent melt blending. A significant

enhancement in modulus and tensile strength of PP can be

achieved by this method, particularly using well bonded

linseed flax and comminuted woven glass fibre-reinforced

thermoset. Results are discussed in terms of the influence of

the compounding route on the microstructure and properties

of the composites produced. 12 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.775993

Item 301Polimeros: Ciencia e Tecnologia

9, No.4, Oct./Dec.1999, p.136-41

Portuguese

TENSILE PROPERTIES OF UNSATURATEDPOLYESTER COMPOSITES REINFORCED BYSHORT SISAL FIBRESJoseph K; Medeiros E S; Carvalho L H

St.Berchman’s College; Paraiba,Universidad Federal

A study was made of the effects of fibre length, content

and orientation on the tensile properties of the above

composites. It was found that tensile strength increased

with fibre lengths of from 5 to 45 mm, levelled off between

45 and 55 mm and then decreased from 55 to 75 mm.

Tensile strength also increased with fibre contents up to

55% and then decreased and modulus and elongation at

break were insensitive to fibre length. 25 refs.

BRAZIL; INDIA

Accession no.774207

Item 302Journal of Polymer Science: Polymer Physics Edition

38, No.7, 1st April 2000, p.916-21

EFFECT OF TREATMENT ON THE THERMALCONDUCTIVITY AND THERMAL DIFFUSIVITYOF OIL-PALM FIBRE-REINFORCEDPHENOLFORMALDEHYDE COMPOSITESAgrawal R; Saxena N S; Sreekala M S; Thomas S

Rajasthan,University; Indian Rubber Institute;

Kottayam,University

The transient plane source technique was used to measure

both the thermal conductivity and diffusivity of untreated

oil-palm-fibre-reinforced and chemically treated

composites. The effects of the various treatments on the

thermal properties of the composites is discussed. 25 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.773147


30, No.4, April 2000, p.84

NATURAL FIBRE

It is briefly reported that natural fibre composites from

Apollor are based on thermoset and thermoplastic resins.

Epitex grades contain straw reinforcement in PP, PE or

PVC. Hemptex is an unsaturated polyester reinforced with

either 20% hemp or 10% each of hemp and glass fibres

in mat form of various types. Property data are presented.

APOLLOREUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; FRANCE;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.772724


60, No.4, 2000, p.581-9

DURABILITY OF JUTE FIBRE-REINFORCEDPHENOLIC COMPOSITESSingh B; Gupta M; Verma A

India,Central Building Research Institute

The physical and mechanical properties of jute fibre-

reinforced phenolic resin composites were studied under

varying conditions of humidity, hydrothermal and

weathering. The ageing-induced degradative effect of these

conditions on dimensional stability, surface topography and

mechanical properties of the composites was observed. The

severity of ageing was greater in an accelerated water test

as compared with the other exposure conditions. SEM

observation revealed the fibre accentuation along with fibre

breakage/splitting and surface discolouration in both natural

and accelerated weathering of UV exposure. Some

biological defacement in the form of fungal infestation

appeared at the cut edges of weathered composites, while

extensive disfigurement was observed on all surfaces under

high humidity/water immersion. These results could be

useful as an indicator for assessing the suitability of jute

composites for use in damp and dry conditions. 24 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.772532

Item 305Journal of Testing & Evaluation

27, No.1, Jan.1999, p.36-41



LOSS ENERGY OF COMPOSITE MATERIALS.II. IMPACT LOADINGBledzki A K; Gassan J; Kessler A J

Kassel,Universitat

The influence of material structure parameters (fibre

treatment and content of micropores) on the impact

behaviour of composite materials is described. An

impact fall ing weight testing device and the

characteristic impact values are introduced. The role

of the fibre/matrix interphase is investigated by using

glass and natural (Jute) fibres with different treatments.

To study the influence of the content of micropores,

epoxy foam reinforced with glass fibre mats are

prepared. All materials are impacted on an instrumented

low-velocity non-penetration falling-weight impact

tester. By integrating the measured force/deflection

curves, all characteristic values are determined. Finally,

the fatigue behaviour of epoxy foam reinforced with

pretreated woven fabrics and the jute/PP laminates

under repeated impact are investigated. In all impact

experiments, the damping index responds more

sensitively to changes in the material structure than

does the loss energy. It is found that the damping index

is an excellent measurement for characterising the

extent of damage. 14 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.772259


39, No.1, 2000, p.187-98

STUDY ON MECHANICAL PERFORMANCE OFJUTE-EPOXY COMPOSITESMishra H K; Dash B N; Tripathy S S; Padhi B N

Vedvyas College; Salipur College; Ravenshaw College

Jute fibres in the form of slivers are reinforced with

epoxy resins to prepare composites. The solution

impregnation method is adopted in an attempt to increase

the percentage of fibre loading. Both untreated (control)

and chemically modified (bleached) slivers are used to

prepare composites. The optimisation study of fibre

loading in composites is done with control slivers

through tensile property assessment. Composites having

50% sliver (control) by weight are served to give the

best tensile characteristics. The tensile, flexural, impact

and hardness properties of the composites of both

bleached and control slivers are investigated and it is

observed that although the latter have better tensile

properties, the former possesses unusually high flexural

properties. Both Izod and Charpy impact tests reflect

that the composites with bleached slivers have higher

impact strengths. In comparison to the composites with

control slivers, they also exhibit greater (Rockwell)

hardness. 30 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.772202


76, No.7, 16th May 2000, p.1000-10

EFFECT OF FIBRE PRETREATMENTCONDITION ON THE INTERFACIALSTRENGTH AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIESOF WOOD FIBRE/PP COMPOSITESJingshen Wu; Demei Yu; Chi-Ming Chan, Jangkyo

Kim, Yiu-Wing Mai

Hong Kong,University of Science & Technology; Xian

Jiaotong,University; Sydney,University

Several different methods for pretreatment of woodfibre

with a silane coupling agent prior to compounding with

polypropylene are described. The compounds produced

from these different pretreated materials using a twin screw

compounding method are examined by reference to

rheological testing in a parallel plate rheometer, physical

testing (both tensile and impact) and by microscopical

examination of fracture surfaces. The coupling chemistry

is discussed and toughening mechanisms are proposed and

discussed with reference to interfacial bond strengths,

matrix plastic deformation and fibre-matrix separation. A

further compound prepared using a grafted copolymer

(styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene grafted with maleic

anhydride) as a compatibiliser was also examined, and

results compared and contrasted with those obtained from

the silane coupled materials. Silane coupled materials were

shown to give the greatest tensile strength, but those using

the compatibiliser gave the greater impact strength. 32 refs

AUSTRALIA; CHINA

Accession no.771964

Item 308High Performance Textiles

April 2000, p.3-4

HEADLINER EXPLOITS NATURAL FIBRES

This article highlights a headliner for cars which uses

natural fibres, from Findlay Industries Inc. of the USA. It

replaces glass fibre with fibres such as jute, sisal, and

kenaf, held together by adhesives as a thin sheet. Details

are given.

FINDLAY INDUSTRIES INC.USA

Accession no.771030

Item 309Angewandte Makromolekulare Chemie

Vol.272, Dec.1999, p.121-7

LIFE CYCLE STUDIES ON HEMP FIBRE-REINFORCED COMPONENTS AND ABS FORAUTOMOTIVE PARTSWotzel K; Wirth R; Flake M

Braunschweig,Technische Universitat; Seeber

Systemtechnik KG

With the increasing importance of environmental

interactions, several innovations of the environmental



performance are introduced in automotive industry.

One aspect of innovation is an environmental material

selection including renewable raw materials. Products

of renewable raw materials are generally regarded as

environmentally friendly, including products from

hemp, jute and flax. The ecological preferences of

products of natural fibres can be investigated and

described by means of ecological balances. However,

no general principles for the ecological advantages or

disadvantages of fibre plants can be deducted from their

life cycle assessment, since the ecological compatibility

of the different products strongly depends on the

circumstances of the journey of life of the product. The

objective is a decision support of automotive engineers

by giving an ecological balance of the benefits of

substituting ABS by hemp fibres for covering

applications. A life cycle assessment (LCA) of hemp

fibre-reinforced components is introduced. This study

contains the agricultural cultivation of fibre plants, the

method of harvesting and the processing of the

harvested crops. Finally, the analysis includes the

further processing of the fibre, starting from the

manufacturing of the fibre composite matrix on which

the production of form press components for the

automotive industry bases. The differences of energy

demand and emissions amount during the use phase of

a passenger car as well as different recycling scenarios

are assessed. 10 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.769759


Vol.272, Dec.1999, p.117-20

INTERFACIAL CHARACTERISATION OF FLAXFIBRE-THERMOPLASTIC POLYMERCOMPOSITES BY THE PULL-OUT TESTStamboulis A; Baillie C; Schulz E

London,Imperial College of Science,Technol.& Med.;

Berlin,Federal Inst.for Mat.Res.& Testing

The interface between flax fibres and thermoplastic

polymer matrices is investigated. Two types of flax fibres

are used: dew retted and upgraded Duralin fibres. The

latter fibres are treated by a novel treatment process for

improved moisture and rot sensitivity. The apparent shear

strength of dew-retted and upgraded Duralin fibres

embedded in high and low density PE, PP and maleic

anhydride-modified PP, respectively, is calculated from

the maximum force measured from the pull-out test using

the Kelly-Tyson equation. Higher apparent shear strength

values are measured in the case of HDPE. An

improvement in the interfacial shear strength by the use

of upgraded flax fibres is not clearly observed. The curves

of pull-out force versus displacement for all samples are

typical of a brittle fracture mixed mode interface

behaviour. The pull-out test of flax fibre-polymer matrices

exhibit similar characteristics with the pull-out test of

synthetic fibre-polymer systems. 23 refs.


UK; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.769758


Vol.272, Dec.1999, p.108-16

EFFECT OF CHEMICAL TREATMENT ON THEPROPERTIES OF HEMP, SISAL, JUTE ANDKAPOK FOR COMPOSITE REINFORCEMENTMwaikambo L Y; Ansell M P

Bath,University

Two chemical treatments are applied to hemp, sisal, jute

and kapok natural fibres to create better fibre to resin

bonding in natural composite materials. The natural fibres

are treated with varying concentrations of caustic soda

with the objective of removing surface impurities and

developing fine structure modifications in the process of

alkalisation. The same fibres are also acetylated with and

without an acid catalyst to graft acetyl groups onto the

cellulose structure, in order to reduce the hydrophilic

tendency of the fibres and enhance weather resistance.

Four characterisation techniques, namely XRD, DSC, FT-

IR and SEM, are used to elucidate the effect of the

chemical treatment on the fibres. After treatment, the

surface topography of hemp, sisal and jute fibres is clean

and rough. The surface of kapok fibres is apparently not

affected by the chemical treatments. X-ray diffraction

shows a slight initial improvement in the crystallinity

index of the fibres at low sodium hydroxide concentration.

However, high caustic soda concentrations lower the fibre

crystallinity index. Thermal analysis of the fibres also

indicates reductions in crystallinity index with increased

caustic soda concentrations and that grafting of the acetyl

groups is optimised at elevated temperatures. Alkalisation

and acetylation successfully modify the structure of

natural fibres and these modifications will most likely

improve the performance of natural fibre composites by

promoting better fibre to resin bonding. 30 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.769757


Vol.272, Dec.1999, p.99-107

VEGETABLE FIBRES IN AUTOMOTIVEINTERIOR COMPONENTSMagurno A

Johnson Controls Automotive srl

A brief overview is presented of the state of the art of the

use of plastic/vegetable fibre composite materials for

interior car parts, and the technologies to produce such

parts (injection moulding, low pressure injection

moulding, thermoforming, thermocompression and



coinjection moulding). Details are given of development

activity in composite plastic-wood materials to be used

in the automotive sector carried out by Johnson Controls

Automotive, with emphasis on the research lines

performed on several kinds of vegetable fibres

(eucalyptus, jute, flax, kenaf) to be applied to semi-

finished products: granules (short vegetable fibre) for

injection moulding), and extruded sheets (long and short

vegetable fibre) for thermoforming. 1 ref.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.769756


Vol.272, Dec.1999, p.71-6

FLAX FIBRE PHYSICAL STRUCTURE AND ITSEFFECT ON COMPOSITE PROPERTIES:IMPACT STRENGTH ANDTHERMOMECHANICAL PROPERTIESVan den Oever M J A; Bos H L; Molenveld K

ATO-DLO

Earlier investigations have shown that the tensile modulus

of flax fibre mat PP composites (NMT) could surpass the

values of glass mat reinforced thermoplastic (GMT) on

fibre weight basis. The tensile and flexural strength could

reach values of up to 65% of the GMT strength values,

however, very much dependent on the fibre physical

structure. This study deals with the Charpy impact and the

thermo-mechanical properties of flax NMT materials. The

trend is that the Charpy impact strength decreases with

increasing fibre internal bonding and enhanced fibre-matrix

adhesion, which is opposite to the trend for the tensile and

flexural properties. The impact strength of the NMT

materials is lower than generally reported for GMT

materials. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis reveals

that with increasing temperature the storage modulus of

the NMT materials reduces more slowly when the fibre

internal bonding and the fibre-matrix adhesion are

improved. In order to approach the tensile, flexural and

impact strength of GMT materials, composites should be

based on the strong elementary flax fibres. The axial tensile

strength of elementary fibres approaches the strength of

glass fibres and the lateral strength of the elementary fibres

is higher than the technical flax fibres lateral strength. The

thermo-mechanical properties can probably be improved

when non-cellulosic material can be removed from the flax

fibre surface without damaging the fibre. 15 refs.



Accession no.769753


Vol.272, Dec.1999, p.41-5

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF FLAX FIBREREINFORCED EPOXY COMPOSITES

George J; Ivens J; Verpoest I

Leuven,Catholic University

Flax fibre-reinforced epoxy composites are prepared by

autoclave moulding. Influence of various fibre parameters

such as lignin content, pectin content and degree of

polymerisation on the composite properties is

investigated. Fibre surface modifications such as alkali,

silane and isocyanate treatment are done to improve the

fibre-matrix interactions. The modified fibre surface is

characterised by scanning electron microscopy, atomic

force microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and

differential scanning calorimetry measurements. It is

found that treatment of fibre has a significant influence

on the mechanical properties of the composites.

Morphological studies of the fracture surfaces are carried

out using scanning electron microscopy. 4 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.769748


Vol.272, Dec.1999, p.27-33

German

TRANSCRYSTALLISATION IN NATURALFIBRE-REINFORCED POLYPROPYLENEMildner I; Bledski A

Kassel,Universitat

The influence of thermal conditions (recrystallisation

temperature, cooling rate) as well as of different fibre

treatments on the crystallisation of PP is examined by using

melting-microscopic analysis. The results of these

investigations show that the nucleation density of untreated

and MAH-grafted PP treated jute fibres is higher in

comparison with alkalised jute fibres because of differences

in the chemical composition and physical properties of the

fibre surface. With increasing recrystallisation temperature

the maximum of transcrystalline layer thickness is shifted

to higher crystallisation times. Experimental data of this

coherence are successfully fitted by using a simple

Arrhenius-type relationship. Regarding non-isothermal

crystallisation, the beginning of transcrystallisation is

shifted, as expected, to lower temperatures with increasing

cooling rate. 21 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.769746


Vol.272, Dec.1999, p.11-6

German

PULTRUSION OF CONSTRUCTIONMATERIALS FROM RENEWABLE RESOURCESGensewich C; Riedel U

DLR Braunschweig; Deutsches Zentrum fuer Luft- &

Raumfahrt



Pultrusion is a continuous production technology for

manufacturing fibre-reinforced plastic profiles. Usually

glass or carbon fibres are used which are impregnated with

liquid petrochemical thermosetting polymers, e.g.

unsaturated polyesters or epoxy resins, and cured while

being pulled through a heated die. The cured profile is then

cut into parts as required. This cost-effective production

method from reinforced plastics technology is now used

for profiles from natural fibres. Choosing adequate natural

reinforcing fibres, the properties of these composites can

be even better than those of GRP. This potential for

lightweight structures should be used especially for

applications in the automotive and furniture industries.

Profiles made of natural fibres and biopolymers show

decisive advantages in terms of recycling compared with

GRP. Incineration of these materials is carbon dioxide-

neutral. Using a biodegradable matrix, composting is

another interesting recycling option. In order to

manufacture natural fibre profiles with similar properties

like GRP processing, fibre preforms, e.g. slivers, preyarns,

yarns and biopolymers, have to be adapted to each other.

To limit investments in new machinery, the manufacture

of natural fibre profiles should be possible in the same

production plants as for GRP profiles. Research still has to

be done to reduce the moisture sensitivity of these

composites and increase the fibre-matrix adhesion. At

present, natural fibre composites sites are suited to panelling

elements and loaded structures for interior applications, in

future also for exterior structural parts. 5 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.769743

Item 317Patent Number: US 6015612 A 20000118

POLYMER WOOD COMPOSITEDeaner M J; Puppin J; Heikkila K E

Andersen Corp.

Disclosed is a composition comprising a polymer and

wood fibre composite, which can be used in the form of a

linear extrudate or thermoplastic pellet to manufacture

structural members. The polymer and wood fibre

composite structural members can be manufactured by

extrusion or injection moulding. The linear extrudate or

pellet can have a cross-section of any arbitrary shape or

can be a regular geometric. The pellet can have a cross-

section shape having a specific volume. Preferably the

pellet is a right cylindrical pellet having a minimum radius

of about 1.5 mm and a minimum length of 1 mm weighing

at least 14 mg. The invention also relates to the

environmentally sensitive recycling of waste streams. The

polymer and wood fibre composite contains an intentional

recycle of a waste stream comprising polymer flakes or

particles or wood fibre. The waste stream can comprise,

in addition to a polymer, such as polyvinyl chloride or

wood fibre, adhesive, paint, preservative or other chemical

stream common in the wood-window or door

manufacturing process, or mixtures thereof. The initial

mixing step before extrusion of the composite material

ensures substantial mixing and melt contact between

molten polymer and wood fibre. The extruded pellet

comprises a consistent proportion of polymer, wood fibre

and water. During the extrusion, water is removed

intentionally to dry the material to a maximum water

content of less than about 10 wt.%, based on the pellet

weight. To make a structural unit, the pellet is introduced

into an extruder or injection moulding machine wherein,

under conditions of temperature and pressure, the

composite pellet material is shaped into a useful cross-

section. Alternatively, the extruded thermoplastic mass,

in the form of a elongated linear extrudate without a

pelletising step, can be immediately directed after

formation into an extruder or injection moulding machine.

USA

Accession no.769624


ADVANCED POLYMER WOOD COMPOSITEDeaner M J; Puppin J; Heikkila K E

Andersen Corp.

Disclosed is a composition in the form of pellets comprising

a thermoplastic and wood fibre composite material suitable

for forming structural members as a replacement for wood

in the manufacture of doors and windows. The composite

has less than about 10 wt.% water based on pellet weight

and a Young’s modulus of at least about 500,000. Structural

members are typically formed from the composite in an

extrusion or injection moulding process.

USA

Accession no.769623


89, No.12, Dec.1999, p.37-9

English; German

STRONG AND IMPACT RESISTANTMieck K P; Reubmann T


Forschung eV; Chemnitz,Technical University

The impact strength of natural fibre mat-reinforced

thermoplastics can be increased by the addition of

cellulosic fibres with high strength and elongation. In fact,

it can be doubled by adding only 10-15% by wt. (German

version of this paper, which includes illustrations, is on

p.102-5). 5 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.764396


35, No.2, 15th Jan. 2000, p.293-8

MANUFACTURE AND MECHANICAL TESTING



OF THERMOSETTING NATURAL FIBRECOMPOSITESHepworth D G; Bruce D M; Vince-nt J F V;

Jeronimidis G

Silsoe Research Institute; Reading,University

Composites were manufactured from high volume

fraction hemp and flax fibres and low viscosity phenolic

and epoxy resins and their mechanical properties, density

and adhesion determined. It was found that the mechanical

properties of the composites could be improved by

minimising processing damage. The influence of two fibre

pretreatments (urea and a 50% PVA solution) for

improving adhesion on the stiffness and strength of the

composites was also evaluated. The latter pretreatment

process increased both the stiffness and strength of the



WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.764273


Manufacturing

31A, No.2, 2000, p.143-50

INFLUENCE OF CHEMICAL SURFACEMODIFICATION ON THE PROPERTIES OFBIODEGRADABLE JUTE FABRICS-POLYESTER AMIDE COMPOSITESMohanty A K; Khan M A; Hinrichsen G


Jute fabrics are subjected to various surface chemical

modifications and then fabricated into composites with a

polyester amide matrix. The mechanical properties of the

composites are then measured in order to investigate the

effects of fabric surface modification. Scanning electron

microscopy is used to study the fracture surfaces of the

composites. Samples are also subjected to compost burial

for observations of degradation including weight loss and

residual bending strength. 22 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.763631

Item 322Automotive Engineer

25, No.2, Feb.2000, p.50

FORD GOES BACK TO NATUREMorton I

Ford is reported here to be pioneering the use of a

natural plant fibre, a relative of hibiscus known as

kenaf, for boot-liners for its Continental and Mustan,

and for full structural door panels for the new Focus.

Full details of the properties and advantages of kenaf

are provided.

FORD; VISTEON; KAFUS BIO-COMPOSITES; R&S

STANZTECHNIK


USA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.763299


26, No.6, 1999, p.T/1-T/4. (Translation of Gummi

Fasern Kunststoffe, No. 4, 1999, p.294)

WOOD-FILLED THERMOPLASTICS AS ANALTERNATIVE TO NATURAL WOODBledzki A K; Sperber V; Theis S; Gassan J; Nishibori S

Kassel,Universitat; EIN Engineering Co.Ltd.

Data are presented on the mechanical properties and

moisture absorption characteristics of wood-fibre and

wood-powder filled plastics. The strength values of

composites filled with up to 55% by weight of wood flour

based on PP, PE, uPVC and pPVC are found to be fully

comparable with those of MDF, although not so good as

those of natural wood. However, due to their lower

moisture absorption on exposure to water, composite

materials in swollen conditions are found to be superior

to wooden materials. 6 refs.


JAPAN; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.762029


38, No.5, 1999, p.1051-8

STUDIES ON SWELLING BEHAVIOUR OFWOOD-POLYMER COMPOSITES BASED ONAGRO-WASTE AND HDPE IN STEAM ANDWATER AT AMBIENT TEMPERATUREMishra S; Naik J B

North Maharashtra University

Polymer composites of HDPE and banana, hemp and

agave fibres (50:50, w/w) are prepared separately with

and without treatment of maleic anhydride. The swelling

phenomenon in terms of absorption of water and steam is

studied and it is found that the steam penetrates more

within a smaller period of time than the water at ambient

temperature. The maleic anhydride treatment on these

fibres shows the esterification of fibres and because of

that, the absorption (swelling) of steam and water is less

than the untreated respective fibres composites. 10 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.761081


38, No.5, 1999, p.997-1011

POLYPROPYLENE HYBRID COMPOSITES: APRELIMINARY STUDY ON THE USE OF GLASSAND COCONUT FIBRE AS REINFORCEMENTSIN POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESRozman H D; Tay G S; Kumar R N; Abubakar A;



Ismail H; Ishak Z A M


PP hybrid composites are made using coconut and glass

fibres as reinforcing agents in the PP matrix. The

incorporation of both fibres results in the reduction of

flexural, tensile and impact strengths, and elongation at

break. The reduction is attributed to the increased

incompatibility between the fibres and the PP matrix, and

the irregularity in fibre size, especially for biofibres as

shown by scanning electron micrographs. Both flexural

and tensile moduli are improved with increasing level of

fibre loading. Most of the properties tested for composites

with high glass fibres/low biofibre loading are comparable

with the ones with low glass fibre/high biofibre loading.

The results show that more biofibres could be incorporated

in hybrid composites, giving the same range of properties

as the composites with higher loading of glass fibres. 18

refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.761078


12, No.6, Nov.1999, p.477-97

BAGASSE FIBER-POLYPROPYLENE BASEDCOMPOSITESVazquez A; Dominguez V A; Kenny J M

Mardel Plata,University; Perugia,University

The processing and properties of bagasse fibre-

polypropylene composites are studied and the effect of

surface modification of the fibres with different

treatments, on the interfacial adhesion to the

polypropylene matrix, is reported. The effect of the

treatment reactions on the chemical structure of the fibres

is analysed by infrared spectroscopy. The effects of the

fibre chemical treatment on the tensile properties of the

moulded composite, produced by different processing

routes, is also analysed and creep measurements are

discussed. 30 refs.



Accession no.760392


12, No.6, Nov.1999, p.443-64

EFFECT OF STRAIN RATE ANDTEMPERATURE ON THE TENSILE FAILUREOF PINEAPPLE FIBER REINFORCEDPOLYETHYLENE COMPOSITESGeorge J; Thomas S


The dependence of strain rate and temperature on the

mechanical properties of pineapple leaf fibre (PALF)

reinforced polyethylene (LDPE) composites is

investigated. The effects of fibre loading, fibre orientation

and fibre treatment on the properties are studied. Scanning

electron microscopy is used to present failure mechanisms

and the activation energy of failure is calculated using an

Arrhenius equation. A failure envelope is generated to

aid understanding of the effect of temperature and strain

rate on the composite properties. 23 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.760390

Item 328Journal of Cellular Plastics

35, No.6, Nov./Dec.1999, p.550-62

IMPACT PROPERTIES OF NATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCED EPOXY FOAMSBledzki A K; Gassan J; Zjang W

Kassel,Universitat

The impact behaviour of natural fibre-reinforced epoxy

foams is described. The effects of different types of

fibres, fibre content and void content are discussed. It

is found that the woven flax fibre results in composites

with better impact strengths than the woven jute fibre

based composites. The impact damage configuration

and mechanism of these laminated composites are

discussed. Impact properties such as loss energy and

damping index are found to be almost linearly

dependent on void content and impact energy. The loss

energy and damping index are decreased with

increasing fibre content under comparable void content

and test conditions. 32 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.760239


32, No.22, 2nd Nov.1999, p.7396-401

TRANSCRYSTALLIZATION IN MCL-PHAS/CELLULOSE WHISKERS COMPOSITESDufresne A; Kellerhals M B; Witholt B

Grenoble,Joseph Fourier University;

Zurich,Eidgenossische Technische Hochschule

Nanocomposite materials were prepared from an

elastomeric medium-chain-length

polyhydroxyalkanoate(Mcl-PHA) latex as semicrystalline

material using a colloidal suspension of hydrolysed

cellulose whiskers as natural and biodegradable filler.

After stirring, the preparations were cast and evaporated.

High-performance materials were obtained from this

system, preserving the natural character of PHA.

Differences were, however, reported by comparison with

amorphous PHA filled systems. These differences were

ascribed to a transcrystallisation phenomenon of

semicrystalline HA on cellulose whiskers, evidenced by

DMA. Transcrystallisation hindered the mechanical

percolation of cellulose whiskers and the formation of a

rigid network within the polymer matrix during the film



formation by evaporation. The whiskers network could

reorganise under thermal ageing. 37 refs.


SWITZERLAND; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.759192

Item 330Polymer

40, No.26, 1999, p.7313-20

MOISTURE DIFFUSION IN POLYESTER-WOODFLOUR COMPOSITESMarcovich N E; Reboredo M M; Aranguren M I


The understanding of water-polymer interactions in

polymeric composite materials is critical to the prediction

of their behaviour in applications where they are exposed

to water or humid environment. Moisture diffusion in

unsaturated polyester-wood flour composites exposed to

environments kept at room temperature and different

relative humidities is investigated. Equations obtained from

microscopic mass balances for vapour diffusion in solids

are used to determine the effective diffusion coefficients

of the different woodflours, neat resin and composites. The

effect of the size and shape of the composite specimens

used in the experimental work on the final moisture content

is also evaluated. Different models are used to predict the

composite effective diffusion coefficients as a function of

filler concentrations. 20 refs.

ARGENTINA

Accession no.758984

Item 331Polyurethanes Expo ’99. Conference proceedings.

Orlando, Fl., 12th-15th Sept.1999, p.373-6

PRODUCTION EXPERIENCES WITHAUTOMOTIVE INTERIOR TRIMCOMPONENTS UTILISING NATURAL FIBREMATSFries K-W; Sander W; Rompala T; Muto J

Hennecke GmbH; Bayer Corp.

(American Plastics Council,Alliance for the

Polyurethanes Industry)

NafpurTec, a Hennecke technology utilising a natural fibre

mat impregnated with Bayer’s Baypreg F PU systems,

most recently went into production for the manufacturing

of automotive interior parts. The first actual production

experiences with this new process technology are related.

By utilising the NafpurTec technology, interior panels can

be moulded with minimal thicknesses of 1.5-2.0 mm,

within 30-60 seconds. The natural fibre mat used is a flax/

sisal blend (50/50) which is used to replace glass fibre,

commonly used in competitive technologies. A variety

of other natural fibres such as hemp are also conceivable

for this technology. The natural fibre mat is impregnated

with the Baypreg PU system to produce a finished,

lightweight product which is 35-45 % urethane, and 55-

65% natural fibres. Advantages of the technology are short

cycle times as compared to competitive technologies, thin

wall thicknesses, the lightweight nature of the finished

parts, the cost savings resulting from the favourable ratio

of natural fibres to urethane (i.e. 65%:35% versus

20%:80%), and the use of a natural fibre which is a

renewable resource with the opportunity for recycling.

Processing data, part physical properties, equipment

configurations and production data are outlined.


USA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.755704


74, No.8, 21st Nov.1999, p.1962-77

STEAM-EXPLODED RESIDUAL SOFTWOOD-FILLED POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESAngles M N; Salvado J; Dufresne A

Tarragona,Universitat Rovira i Virgili; Grenoble,Joseph

Fourier University

Residual softwood sawdust was pretreated using a steam-

explosion technique and was used as a natural filler in

PP-based composites. DMA and tensile properties of the

materials were studied. The influence of filler loading,

steam-explosion severity and coating of the fibre with a

functionalised compatibiliser, such as maleic anhydride-

modified PP, on the mechanical behaviour of the

composite was evaluated. The results were analysed in

relation to those from SEM observations and surface

energy and apparent specific area measurements. 59 refs.



Accession no.755613


26, No.11, Dec.1999, p.40

TWO-MATERIAL DEMONSTRATION

It is briefly reported that Battenfeld has demonstrated an

HM 4500/2x2800 injection moulding machine producing

a furniture door and handle. The door part consists of a

flax reinforced PP core and Targor PP for the outer layers.

The door part and the thermoplastic elastomer grip were

made in a multi-component mould.

BATTENFELD AGEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.754611


89, No.8, Aug.1999, p.18-20

English; German

FLAX-REINFORCED POLYPROPYLENEWielage B; Kohler E; Odenwald S; Lampke T; Bergner A




In the production of composite materials from natural

fibres and a thermoplastic matrix, the process parameters

have a significant effect on the mechanical properties of

the parts. The boundaries of the process control are

derived from theoretical principles and temperature-time

dependencies, determined by thermoanalytical

techniques. 7 refs. (Translated from Kunststoffe p.60-2).


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.753240


45, No.10, Oct.1999, p.62/8

NATURAL FIBERSSherman L M

A review is presented of developments in the use of natural

fibre-reinforced plastics in vehicle interiors. Technology

for using natural fibre composites in interior trim is being

cultivated by Tier I and II automotive suppliers, typically

in partnership with producers of natural fibre-based mat

materials. Much developmental work is focused on PP-

based composites produced by compression moulding or

thermoforming extruded sheet or commingled mats of PP

and plant fibres, and at least one SRIM-type polyurethane

application has been commercialised. Details are given

of automotive applications using these biocomposites,processing techniques used, and material combinations.

NORTH AMERICA

Accession no.752984


38, No.4, 1999, p.767-82

JUTE-REINFORCED URETHANE POLYMERCOMPOSITE UNDER GAMMA RADIATIONKhan M A; Balo S K; Ali K M I


Some formulations are developed with urethane

triacrylate oligomer in combination with monomers of

different functionalities. Thick (2 mm) polymer films are

prepared with these formulations under Co-60 gamma

radiation. The films are reinforced with jute by mixing

jute particles in the above formulations at different

proportions. These films are characterised and it is

observed that both tensile and bending strengths are

enhanced by the addition of the jute in the formulation;

however, elongation is reduced with the increase in jute

concentration. However, the presence of trimethylol

propane triacrylate (TMPTA) in the formulations slightly

reduce the tensile properties of the composites from the

already enhanced properties induced by the TMPTA in

the films. 9 refs.

BANGLADESH

Accession no.752297

Item 337Journal of Composite Materials

31, No.5, 1997, p.509-27

INFLUENCE OF SHORT GLASS FIBREADDITION ON THE MECHANICALPROPERTIES OF SISAL REINFORCED LOWDENSITY POLYETHYLENE COMPOSITESKalapasad G; Joseph K; Thomas S


The evaluation of enhancement in the mechanical

properties of short sisal fibre reinforced PE composites

by the incorporation of short glass fibre as an intimate

mix with sisal is described. Intimately mixed short glass-

sisal hybrid fibre reinforced PE composites (GSRP) are

prepared by solution mixing technique. The effects of fibre

orientation and alkali treatment on sisal fibre in GSRP

are studied. Addition of relatively small volume fraction

of glass (0.03) to the sisal reinforced PE matrix (SRP)

enhances the tensile strength of longitudinally oriented

composites by about 80%. Addition of the same volume

fraction of glass to the alkali treated sisal incorporated

SRP enhances the tensile strength by more than 90%. The

flexural strength of the longitudinally oriented composites

is also studied. The incorporation of glass fibre (Vf = 0.03)

to SRP enhances the flexural strength by more than 60%.

The effect of hybridisation on water absorption tendency

of the sisal fibre is studied by immersing SRP and GSRP

in boiling water for 3 hours. It is observed that water

uptake of GSRP is two to four times less than that of SRP

composites. Halpin-Tsai equation for composites is tried

for calculating the tensile modulus of longitudinally

oriented GSRP. 25 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.751391


12, No.5, Sept.1999, p.388-98

INFLUENCE OF FIBRE SURFACE TREATMENTON THE CREEP BEHAVIOUR OF JUTE FIBRE-REINFORCED POLYPROPYLENEGassan J; Bledski A K

Kassel,Universitat

Improvements in the characteristic properties of jute-PP

composites are obtained with the application of MAH

grafted PP copolymers as a coupling agent to the fibre

SEM investigations demonstrate that fibre pull-out is

reduced after the modification with the coupling agent.

This improved fibre-matrix adhesion further leads to a

lower creep strain in the outer fibres. This is demonstrated

for composites with two different fibre contents. Up to

applied stresses of 5.1 N/sq.mm, the creep behaviour for

the composites with unmodified, as well as for those with

MAH-PP modified, fibres obeys the creep law according

to Abbott. The experimental data of creep tests at higher

applied stresses are fitted more successfully by using the

creep law according to Findley. The creep kinetic



coefficient according to Abbott is dependent on the

applied stress for both types of composites and for both

fibre contents. 32 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.751376


No.268, July 1999, p.22-8

German

EFFECT OF WATER EXPOSURE ON ALKALITREATED JUTE AND FLAX FIBRE-EPOXYRESIN COMPOSITESGassan J; Bledzki A K

Kassel,Universitat

The influence of water exposure on the physical properties

of untreated and alkali-treated jute and flax fibres and

their composites with an epoxy resin is reported. The

water caused strong anisotropic swelling which was more

significant for the alkali-treated fibres. Generally, jute

fibres lost 30% of their tenacity after exposure to water

while the tenacity of flax fibres remains unaffected. In

consequence, the tensile strength of jute-epoxy

composites decreases with increasing water content, while

the strength of comparable flax-epoxy composites

increases slightly. The dynamic strength of the composites

was improved after the use of alkali-treated fibres. Over

a 49-day period of storage in water, the dynamic strength

decreased in relation to the type of fibre and their

treatment. 32 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.750687


20, No.4, Aug.1999, p.604-11

EFFECT OF CYCLIC MOISTURE ABSORPTIONDESORPTION ON THE MECHANICALPROPERTIES OF SILANIZED JUTE-EPOXYCOMPOSITESGassan J; Bledzki A K

Kassel,Universitat

The effect of water absorption-desorption cycles on the

mechanical properties of natural fibre-reinforced plastics

was studied. Epoxy resins with jute woven fabrics as

reinforcement with untreated and silane-treated fibres

were investigated. Silane treatment of fibres led to

increases of up to 30% in TS, flexural strength and

Young’s modulus of composites. Absorption-desorption

cycles of fibres changed the fracture mechanisms of fibres

without having significant effects on the TS of the fibres.

Light microscopic investigations showed that absorption-

desorption cycles of composites led to the debonding of

resin from fibres as well as to cracks in the adjacent resin.

As a result of these mechanisms, TS and Young’s modulus

decreased, regardless of the quality of fibre-resin

adhesion. For dynamic loadings, storage cycle induced

damage, further bringing about a decreased dynamic

modulus and an increased progress in damage with

increasing loading cycles during the first two

environmental cycles, being constant afterwards. 29 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.750345

Item 341Antec ’99. Volume II. Conference proceedings.

New York City, 2nd-6th May 1999, p.2645-9. 012

HIGH QUALITY FLAX FIBRE COMPOSITESMANUFACTURED BY THE RESIN TRANSFERMOULDING PROCESSOksman K

Swedish Institute of Composites

(SPE)

The use of high quality natural fibres as reinforcements

is studied using the resin transfer moulding (RTM)

processing technique. The fibres are unidirectional high

quality ArcticFlax and the matrix is an epoxy resin. The

mechanical properties of the composites are compared to

conventional RTM manufactured glass fibre composites,

traditionally retted UD-flax fibre composites and to the

pure epoxy. Results of mechanical testing show that the

(50/50) high quality ArcticFlax/epoxy composite has a

stiffness of about 40 GPa compared to the stiffness in

pure epoxy of 3.2 GPa. The same composite has a tensile

strength of 280 MPa compared to 80 MPa of the epoxy.

RTM is shown to be a suitable processing technique for

natural fibre composites when high quality laminates are

preferred. 9 refs.

SCANDINAVIA; SWEDEN; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.749510


59, No.11, 1999, p.1625-40

EFFECT OF PROCESSING VARIABLES ON THEMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF SISAL-FIBER-REINFORCED POLYPROPYLENECOMPOSITESJoseph P V; Joseph K; Thomas S

Mahatma Gandhi,University; Kerala,St.Berchmans’

College

Short sisal fibre-reinforced PP composites were prepared

by melt mixing and solution mixing methods. The melt

mixing parameters were optimised. A mixing time of 10

min, rotor speed of 50 rpm and a mixing temp. of 170C

were found to be optimum conditions. The tensile properties

were evaluated as a function of fibre length, loading and

orientation. Fibre length of 2 mm was found to be optimum

for the best balance of properties in the case of melt-mixed

composites. Composites containing longitudinally oriented



fibres showed superior mechanical properties to those of

the transverse and random orientations. Tensile properties

of melt-mixed and solution-mixed composites were

compared. Melt-mixed composites showed better

properties than solution-mixed composites. 34 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.749069



FOAMING OF PS/WOOD FIBRE COMPOSITESIN EXTRUSION USING MOISTURE ASBLOWING AGENTRizvi G; Matuana L M; Park C B

Toronto,University; Michigan,Technological University

(SPE)

An experimental study on foam processing of PS and HIPS/

wood fibre composites in extrusion using moisture as a

blowing agent is presented. Wood fibre inherently contains

moisture that can potentially be used as a blowing agent.

Undried wood fibre is processed together with PS and HIPS

materials in extrusion and wood fibre composite foams are

produced. The cellular morphology and volume expansion

ratios of the foamed composites are characterised. Because

of the high stiffness of styrenic materials, moisture

condensation during cooling after expansion at high

temperature does not cause much contraction of the foamed

composite and a high volume expansion ratio up to 20 is

successfully obtained. The experimental results show that

the expansion ratio can be controlled by varying the

processing temperature and the moisture content in the wood

fibre. The effects of a small amount of a chemical blowing

agent and mineral oil on the cell morphologies of plastic/

wood fibre composite foams are also investigated. 36 refs.

CANADA; USA

Accession no.748770


73, No.12, 19th Sept.1999, p.2493-505

WOOD-POLYMER COMPOSITES MADE WITHACRYLIC MONOMERS, ISOCYANATE ANDMALEIC ANHYDRIDEEllis W D; O’Dell J L

US,Dept.of Agriculture,Forest Service

Wood could provide better service in some applications if

it were harder and more dimensionally stable. Wood-

polymer composites (WPC) made with different chemical

combinations are evaluated for dimensional stability, ability

to exclude water vapour and liquid water and hardness.

Pine, maple and oak solid wood are combined with different

combinations of hexanediol diacrylate, hydroxyethyl

methacrylate, hexamethylene diisocyanate and maleic

anhydride. Treatment slows the rates of water vapour and

liquid water absorption. Although the resultant dimensional

stability is not permanent, the rate of swelling of WPC

specimens is less than that of unmodified wood specimens.

In addition, WPC are harder than unmodified wood. The

chemical combination of hexanediol diacrylate,

hydroxyethyl methacrylate and hexamethylene

diisocyanate greatly decrease wetting and penetration of

water into the wood. This chemical combination also gives

the hardest and most dimensionally stable WPC. In general,

WPC prepared using hydroxyethyl methacrylate are harder

than specimens made without hydroxyethyl methacrylate

and exclude water and moisture more effectively. 17 refs.

USA

Accession no.747986

Item 345Gummi Fasern Kunststoffe

52, No.4, April 1999, p.294-6

German

WOOD-FILLED THERMOPLASTICS AS ANALTERNATIVE TO NATURAL WOODBledzki A K; Sperber V; Theis S; Gassan J; Nishibori S

Kassel,Universitat; EIN Engineering Co.Ltd.

Data are presented on the mechanical properties and

moisture absorption of wood-fibre and wood-powder

filled plastics (polypropylene, polyethylene and PVC) as

compared with MDF and natural wood. 6 refs. Articles

from this journal can be requested for translation by

subscribers to the Rapra produced International Polymer

Science and Technology.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.747662


34, No.15, 1st Aug. 1999, p.3709-19

INTERFACIAL AND MECHANICALPROPERTIES OF ENVIRONMENT-FRIENDLY“GREEN” COMPOSITES MADE FROMPINEAPPLE FIBRES ANDPOLY(HYDROXYBUTYRATE-CO-VALERATE)RESINLuo S; Netravali A N

Cornell University

The results are reported of a detailed study of the physical

and tensile properties of pineapple fibres, the tensile and

flexural properties of biodegradable composites

reinforced with these fibres and measurements of

pineapple fibre/poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-valerate)

interfacial shear strength, performed using the microbond

test. The tensile and flexural properties of the composites

are compared with those of various kinds of wood and

the fracture surfaces of the composites are briefly

discussed. 20 refs.

USA

Accession no.745938




29, No.9, Sept.1999, p.70/79

PROCESSORS FOCUS ON DIFFERENTIATIONIN WINDOW PROFILESDefosse M

The need for product differentiation in the window

industry is discussed as the market reaches maturity. In

the two largest geographical markets, North America and

Germany, penetration is said to be over 40% and 50%

respectively. Processors are aware that future sales growth

will depend on offering unique products, including the

use of composites materials and taking advantage of

possible US legislation regarding the energy efficiency

of buildings, by offering thermally efficient products.

Product developments are reviewed.


NORTH AMERICA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.745194


73, No.9, 29th Aug.1999, p.1757-61

GRAFT COPOLYMERISATION OFACRYLONITRILE ON KENAF FIBRES BYCERIC ION IN THE PRESENCE OF ALLYLCOMPOUNDSEromosele I C; Bayero S S

Yola,Federal University of Technology

Graft copolymers of acrylonitrile on kenaf fibres are

obtained in an aqueous medium by the use of allyl alcohol

and allyl chloride in combination with ceric ion as redox

pairs. The graft copolymerisation reactions show distinct

features associated with different initiating species derived

from the redox pairs. For a ceric-allyl chloride-initiated

reaction, a minimum graft yield is observed, accompanied

by an enhanced graft yield. This suggests the existence

of two kinetically controlled grafting reactions arising

from two different initiating species. For the ceric-allyl

alcohol-initiated reaction, the grafting profile shows a

maximum yield and suggests the presence of one active

initiating species. High concentrations of acrylonitrile are

favourable to grafting with values of up to 150%, but they

also result in decreased efficiency in monomer conversion

to grafted polymer. The frequency of grafting increases

with the concentration of allyl alcohol but the molecular

weight of grafted polymer of up to 4.46 x 10 4 decreases

by a factor of one and half over the concentration range

1.8-9.0 x 10 -4 M of the latter. The presence of 10% (v/v)

N,N’-dimethylformamide results in zero graft, but the

same vol % of formic acid had no apparent effect on the

graft yield. A negative temperature dependence in the graft

yield is found in the temperature range of 50-70 deg.C.

15 refs.

NIGERIA

Accession no.744465


59, No.9, 1999, p.1303-9

POSSIBILITIES FOR IMPROVING THEMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF JUTE/EPOXYCOMPOSITES BY ALKALI TREATMENT OFFIBRESGassan J; Bledzki A K

Kassel,Universitat

The mechanical properties of tossa jute fibres were

optimised by treatment with sodium hydroxide using

different alkali concentrations and shrinkages. The effects

of shrinkage on fibre structure and, as a result, on the

mechanical properties of the fibre and the influence of

treatment on the mechanical properties of the composites

are discussed in depth. Mechanical properties evaluated

included tensile properties and impact properties. A

correlation was established between composite impact

damping and yarn toughness. 20 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.741354


73, No.7, 15th Aug.1999, p.1329-40

FIBER-REINFORCED CELLULOSICTHERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITESGlasser W G; Taib R; Jain R K; Kander R

Virginia Tech

Steam-exploded fibres from Yellow poplar (Liriodendron

tulipifera) wood were assessed in terms of their thermal

stability characteristics, their impact on torque during melt

processing of a thermoplastic cellulose acetate butyrate

matrix, their fibre-matrix adhesion and dispersion in

composites, and their mechanical properties under

tension. Fibres included water-extracted steam-exploded

fibres, alkali-extracted fibres(AEF), acetylated

fibres(AAEF) and a commercial milled oat fibre sample

(untreated control). AAEF composites produced the best

mechanical properties. Fibre-aspect ratio was reduced to

an average of 25 to 50 from much more than 200 during

compounding. The superior reinforcing characteristics of

AAEF fibres were also reflected by SEM, which revealed

better fibre-matrix adhesion and failure by fibre

fibrillation rather than by fibre pull-out. 29 refs.

USA

Accession no.739040


20, No.3, June 1999, p.367-78

MECHANICAL AND THERMAL PROPERTIESOF ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY ‘GREEN’COMPOSITES MADE FROM PINEAPPLE LEAFFIBRES AND POLYHYDROXYBUTYRATE-CO-



VALERATE RESINLuo S; Netravali A N

Cornell University

The mechanical and thermal properties of unidirectional,

degradable, environmentally friendly ‘green’ composites

made from pineapple fibres and polyhydroxybutyrate-co-

valerate (PHBV) resin are presented. Tensile and flexural

properties of the green composites with different fibre

contents are measured in both longitudinal and transverse

directions. Compared to those of virgin resin, the tensile

and flexural strengths of green composites are

significantly higher in the longitudinal direction while

they are lower in the transverse direction. However, the

mechanical properties are lower than those predicted by

simple models. Scanning electron microscope

photomicrographs of the tensile fracture surfaces

demonstrate fibres being pulled out from the matrix, the

interfacial failure, fibre fibrillation and the non-

unidirectional nature of the green composites. The thermal

behaviour of the green composites, studied by differential

scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis,

shows that the presence of pineapple fibres does not affect

the non-isothermal crystallisation kinetics, crystallinity

and thermal decomposition of PHBV resin. 23 refs.

USA

Accession no.738681

Item 3525th International Conference on Deformation and

Fracture of Composites. Conference proceedings.

London, 18th-19th March 1999, p.282-96

HETEROEPITAXIAL NUCLEATION OF FLAXFIBRES IN POLYOLEFIN CRYSTALLISATIONZafeiropoulos N E; Barber A H; Baillie C A; Matthews

F L


(Institute of Materials; Institution of Mechanical

Engineers)

Cellulose fibres have long been used in the plastics industry

as cost-cutting materials. They are now recognised as a

potential replacement for glass fibres for use as reinforcing

agents in composite materials. They enjoy a number of

certain advantages over glass fibres, such as low cost, high

strength-to-weight ratio, biodegradability and ease of

processing. Crystallisation from the melt of various

polyolefin matrices (isotactic PP (i-PP), maleic anhydride

modified PP (MAPP) and HDPE) in the presence of flax

fibres of three different types (green flax, dew retted flax

and Duralin treated flax) is examined using hot stage optical

microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. It is

revealed that all the three types of flax fibres induce the

formation of a transcrystalline layer in i-PP, while only

dew retted flax is found able to induce transcrystallinity in

HDPE and MAPP. 19 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.738674


73, No.4, 25th July 1999, p.583-92

BIOCOMPOSITES BASED ON SEA ALGAEFIBERS AND BIODEGRADABLETHERMOPLASTIC MATRICESIannace S; Nocilla G; Nicolais L

Napoli,Universita Federico II

Composites were prepared by mixing thermoplastic

biodegradable polymers (Mater-Bi Y101 U, Mater-Bi

ZF03 U/A and polycaprolactone) with sea algae

(lignocellulosic) fibres. Tensile properties were analysed

as a function of fibre concentration. The effect of

processing, such as compression moulding and

calendering, on the mechanical properties of the materials

was investigated. Composites showed higher elastic

modulus and lower strength than the matrix components.

Fibre damaging, characterised by a reduction of both

length and diameter, was observed in the composites.

Films prepared by calendering operations showed

anisotropic properties due to fibre alignment. 23 refs.

NOVAMONTEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; ITALY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.738097


73, No.3, 18th July 1999, p.399-407

CORRELATION OF WATER VAPORADSORPTION BEHAVIOR OF WOOD WITHSURFACE THERMODYNAMIC PROPERTIESTshabalala M A; Denes A R; Williams R S

US,Forest Products Laboratory; Wisconsin,University

The surface thermodynamic characteristics of a wood

fibre were determined and an attempt made to correlate

these characteristics with water vapour adsorption

behaviour of the fibre. The surface thermodynamic

characteristics were the dispersive component of the

surface energy, surface acid-base free energy and enthalpy

of desorption of acid-base probes, and surface acid-base

acceptor and donor parameters. The data obtained were

relevant to the design of appropriate processes for

manipulating the surface properties of wood fibres while

preserving their desirable bulk properties. A desirable

feature for wood-plastic composites was optimal adhesion

to non-wood matrices and for fibreboard, particleboard

and flakeboard resistance to degradation mediated by

water vapour adsorption. 20 refs.

USA

Accession no.738079

Item 355Antec ’99. Volume III. Conference proceedings.


EFFECT OF FILLER SIZE AND COMPOSITION



ON THE PROPERTIES OF INJECTIONMOULDED PP AND PP/HDPE-WOOD FLOURCOMPOSITESAlbano C; Ichazo M N; Gonzalez J; Molina K; Espejo L

Venezuela,Universidad Central; Simon

Bolivar,Universidad

(SPE)

The effect of filler size and composition on the mechanical

properties of wood PP composites is studied. The blends

are prepared in an intermeshing co-rotating twin screw

extruder and injection moulded. The best properties

(elastic modulus and tensile strength) are obtained for the

40 wt.% wood flour composites for all filler sizes

employed. PP/HDPE blends (80/20 wt.%) are prepared

based on the higher wood flour content of the composites

tested previously. 8 refs.

VENEZUELA

Accession no.734017

Item 356Revista de Plasticos Modernos

76, No.506, Aug.1998, p.190-7

Spanish

DEVELOPMENT OF LIGNOCELLULOSEFIBRE-REINFORCED THERMOPLASTICS FORINJECTION MOULDINGGomez J L; Jarones C; Ganan P

Gaiker; Medellin,Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana

The properties of injection moulded specimens of PP

reinforced with sisal were studied in comparison with

glass fibre-reinforced PP specimens. The influence of a

propylene-maleic anhydride graft copolymer coupling

agent on the mechanical properties of the composites was


COLOMBIA; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION;


Accession no.732436


18, No.4, 1999, p.346-72

JUTE SACK CLOTH REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITES:MECHANICAL AND SORPTION STUDIESHarikumar K R; Joseph K

CMS College; St.Berchman’s College; Mahatma

Gandhi,University

Composite materials are fabricated using jute and PP sacks

by compression moulding. Different types of composites

are fabricated by varying the number of jute layers,

number of PP layers and the mode of combination of jute

and PP layers, keeping the total number of layers a

constant. It is found that as the number of PP layers

increases, the tensile strength, tear strength and modulus

increase, but the elongation at break and equilibrium water

uptake are found to decrease. Also, when the number of

jute layers increases, by keeping the number of PP layers

constant, generally failure properties decrease but an

increased water uptake is observed. The influence of

various constructions on the properties is analysed by

changing the mode of combination of jute and PP layers.

In these experiments, the total number of layers are fixed

at a constant. It is found that the preferred combination is

one with jute as core layer and PP as skin layers. Scanning

electron microscopy is used to analyse the failure surface

morphology of the composites. Finally, value-added

product is fabricated using selected composites. 45 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.732294


PROCESS OF MAKING A LOAD-CARRYINGSTRUCTURERyan D B

At least one of bamboo culms, split bamboo culms,

bamboo fibre tape or prepared bamboo fibres is coated

with a bonding material to produce a core, which is then

combined with a polymer matrix and extruded or moulded

to form a structure having the desired shape. The structure

compares favourably with wood, steel and concrete with

regard to strength, longevity, price and ability to withstand

earthquakes and may be used as a beam, column,

telephone pole or marine pole.

USA

Accession no.730270

Item 359Composites Part B: Engineering

30B, No.3, 1999, p.309-20

EFFECT OF FIBRE SURFACE TREATMENT ONTHE FIBRE-MATRIX BOND STRENGTH OFNATURAL FIBRE REINFORCED COMPOSITESValadez-Gonzalez A; Cervantes-Uc J M; Olayo R;

Herrera-Franco P J

Yucatan,Centro de Investigacion Cientifica;

Iztapalapa,University

The interfacial shear strength between natural fibres

(henequen fibres) and a thermoplastic matrix (HDPE) was

improved by the morphological and silane chemical

modification of the fibre surface. The three surface

modifications were (1) treatment with alkaline solution,

(2) surface treatment with vinyltris(2-methoxyethoxy)

silane (Silane A-172 from Union Carbide), and (3) pre-

impregnation with a dilute solution of HDPE in xylene.

The alkali treatment improved the interfacial shear

strength by increasing the surface roughness to give better

mechanical interlocking and increased the amount of

cellulose on the surface to increase the number of possible

reaction sites. The pre-impregnation gave better fibre

wetting. Surface silanisation resulted in better interfacial

load transfer efficiency, but did not seem to improve the



wetting of the fibre. The results obtained from the single

fibre fragmentation test gave better agreement with the

effective mechanical properties of composite material than

those obtained by pull-out test. 27 refs. (See also next

paper, this journal, p.321-31)

MEXICO

Accession no.729210

Item 360International Polymer Processing

14, No.1, March 1999, p.10-20

UTILISATION OF RHEOLOGY CONTROL TODEVELOP WOOD-GRAIN PATTERNED PVC/WOOD FLOUR COMPOSITESYong Lak Joo; Myung Ho Cho

Hanwha Group

The effects of wood flour and plasticiser on the rheology

and extrusion of PVC-based wood-plastic composites were

investigated. The intention was to determine an optimal

pair of PVC-based wood-plastic composites that would

exhibit substantially different rheological behaviours so that

patterns similar to wood grain can be developed inside and

on the surface of the product when the two compounds are

extruded together. Experiments were performed on a single

screw extruder, an intermeshing, co-rotating twin screw

extruder and an intermeshing, counter-rotating twin screw

extruder. Only the counter-rotating, twin screw extruder

gave wood pattern both inside and on the surface as well

as complete plasticisation. Considerable rheological,

compounding (DOP content, wood flour content and

optional acrylic impact modifier content), Tg, and

processing data are given. Mechanical properties need to

be improved before the composites can be used for door

frames and windows. 22 refs.

KOREA

Accession no.728752


89, No.3, March 1999, p.6-7. (Translated from

Kunststoffe 89 (1999) 3, pp.30-2)

INJECTION MOULDING OF NATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCED POLYPROPYLENEAurich T; Mennig G


The suitability is investigated of natural fibres as

reinforcements for use in polymer based composite

materials. In particular injection moulded flax fibre-

reinforced polypropylene is discussed. Consideration is

given to the fibre-matrix adhesion and the use of coupling

agents, compounding, rheology and mechanical

properties. It is shown that natural fibres can provide

significant increases in strength and elastic modulus

compared to the pure polymer, and represent an alternative

to glass fibre-reinforced thermoplastics for use in the

medium loading range. 8 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.726373


89, No.2, Feb. 1999, p.23-4. (Translated from

Kunststoffe 89 (1999), 2, pp.80-4).

RECYCLING OF POLYPROPYLENEREINFORCED WITH NATURAL FIBRESReussmann T; Mieck P; Gruetzner R; Bayer R


Forschung eV; Allied Polymers GmbH

The recycling of flax fibre reinforced PP is examined,

and the incorporation of a recompounding stage is

investigated, which leads to a higher quality recycled

compound for injection moulding and extrusion

applications. By recompounding regrind, it is possible to

optimise fibre content and also fibre/matrix adhesion by

means of chemical coupling. The remoulding of used parts

has not gained any major technical significance, since

repeated compression moulding leads to a reduction in

mechanical properties. 4 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.726066


43, No.1, Jan.1999, p.19

PLANT FIBRES OFFER “GREENER” OPTION

The automotive industry’s search for cheaper, “greener”

materials is generating considerable research into plant

fibre as an alternative to glass reinforcement in composite

products. Research into plant fibre composites is focusing

on two processing routes: injection moulding for non-

structural parts and resin transfer moulding for semi-

structural parts. Concargo has developed a hemp

reinforced composite parcel shelf for the Ford Transit van

using RTM.

CONCARGO LTD.EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.725938


38, No.1, 1999, p.99-112

STUDY ON PHYSICAL AND MECHANICALPROPERTIES OF BIOPOL-JUTE COMPOSITEKhan M A; Ali K M I; Hinrichsen G; Kopp C; Kropke S

Bangladesh,Atomic Energy Commission;


A Biopol-jute composite (BJC) is prepared using a hot-

press treatment by reinforcing the Biopol polymer with

hessian cloth (jute fabrics) placed in between the layers



of Biopol polymer films. Both the tensile and bending

strengths of the composite increase substantially, in

comparison to pure Biopol. Jute fabrics are treated with

different additives to improve the composite properties.

Among them, 2-ethyl hexyl acrylate (3%), gamma-

methacryloxypropyltrimethoxy silane (2%), and

trimethoxy vinyl silane (0.5%) are found to be effective

in enhancing tensile properties up to 80% with respect to

Biopol. Mixed additives increase the tensile properties

of the composites to some extent, but not as much as the

single additive. 23 refs.

BANGLADESH; EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN


Accession no.724276


38, No.12, Dec.1998, p.2029-33

NUMERICAL SIMULATION OFTHERMOPLASTIC WHEAT STARCHINJECTION MOULDING PROCESSAbbes B; Ayad R; Prudhomme J C; Onteniente J P

Reims,University; ESIEC; IFTS

Wheat starch was plasticised using 16% water, 10%

glycerol and 2% magnesium stearate as lubricant. This

lubricated and fully biodegradable thermoplastic wheat

starch formulation was pelletised using an ogive-shaped

head single screw extruder. After conditioning one week

at 20C and 65% relative humidity, the pellets were

moulded to produce standardised samples for tensile test.

The aim of this work is to optimise the injection moulding

process of this formulation using available moulding

software. Two sets of process simulation software were

used, namely, C-MOLD (AC-Technology USA) and

STRIMFLOW (Matra-DataVision, France). It is shown

that the conventional continuum mechanics equations can

be used for modelling the injection moulding of

thermoplastic starch. These equations are solved using

the finite element method. Comparisons with some

experimental results are presented, indicating good

agreement. Data on the processing of thermoplastic starch

and several other basic aspects are provided. 38 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.718719

Item 366Plastverarbeiter

46, No.4, April 1995, p.18-24

German

DIRECT EXTRUSION: COMPOUNDING ANDPROCESSING IN ONE STEP, PART IIBerghaus U

Examples of the use of direct extrusion in a wide range

of applications for e.g. dispersion of additives and filling

and reinforcement of polyolefins are given. Information

is tabulated on the change in thermal, mechanical and

acoustic properties of polyolefins with the use of fillers

(whiting, talc, barium sulphate and wood flour) and

reinforcing agent (glass fibre), and the economics of

production of pipes from different materials (HDPE, PVC,

filled and unfilled PP) are considered. Articles from this

journal can be requested for translation by subscribers to

the Rapra produced International Polymer Science and

Technology.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.716840


Manufacturing

30A, No.3, 1999, p.277-84

SOME MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OFUNTREATED JUTE FABRIC-REINFORCEDPOLYESTER COMPOSITESGowda T M; Naidu A C B; Chhaya R

Bangalore,Aeronautical Development Establishment

Details are given of the mechanical properties of jute fibre-

reinforced composites. Data are given for tensile strength,

compressive strength, flexural strength, impact strength,

in-plane shear strength, interlaminar shear strength, and

hardness for jute fibre-reinforced saturated polyester

resins. 21 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.716342


71, No.9, 28th Feb.1999, p.1505-13

JUTE FIBRE REINFORCED POLYESTERCOMPOSITES BY DYNAMIC MECHANICALANALYSISSaha A K; Das S; Bhatta D; Mitra B C


Utkal,University

Chemically modified jute fibres were used to make jute

fibre-reinforced polyester composites. Dynamic

mechanical thermal properties are discussed. 26 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.716335


71, No.5, 31st Jan.1999, p.841-6

IN SITU JUTE YARN COMPOSITE WITH 2-HYDROXYETHYL METHACRYLATE(HEMA)VIA UV RADIATIONAli K M I; Khan M A; Ali M A; Akhunzada K S


Jute yarns were soaked for 30 min in HEMA/methanol

solutions of different proportions and were then irradiated



in situ with a UV lamp for different periods of time. The

treated jute yarns, which were washed in acetone after

the irradiation to remove the unused excess HEMA

monomer, gained about 10% polymer loading with

enhanced TS (80%) and elongation (95%). The tenacity

was not further increased by incorporation of a very small

amount (1%) of various additives into the HEMA/

methanol solutions, but elongation was enhanced up to

140% when the additive urethane acrylate(1%) was mixed

with the solution. 11 refs.

BANGLADESH

Accession no.713503


71, No.4, 24th Jan.1999, p.623-9

ALKALI TREATMENT OF JUTE FIBERS:RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STRUCTURE ANDMECHANICAL PROPERTIESGassan J; Bledzki A K

Kassel,Universitat

The mechanical properties of tossa jute fibres were shown

to be improved by using sodium hydroxide treatment.

Shrinkage of fibres during this treatment had significant

effects on the fibre structure, as well as on fibre

mechanical properties such as TS and modulus. Isometric

sodium hydroxide-treated jute yarns (20 min at 20C in

25% sodium hydroxide solution) exhibited an increase

in yarn TS and modulus of about 120% and 150%,

respectively. These changes in mechanical properties were

affected by modifying the fibre structure, basically via

the crystallinity ratio, degree of polymerisation and

orientation (Hermans factor). Structure-property

relationships, developed for cellulosic man-made fibres,

were used with a high correlation factor to describe the

behaviour of the jute fibre yarns. 27 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.709661


71, No.4, 24th Jan.1999, p.531-9

SHORT JUTE FIBER-REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITES: DYNAMICMECHANICAL STUDYRana A K; Mitra B C; Banerjee A N


Calcutta,University

Short jute fibre-reinforced PP composites were prepared

using a high-speed thermokinetic mixer. A compatibiliser

was used to improve the molecular interaction between

jute and PP, the weight fractions of both jute fibre and

compatibiliser being varied. Dynamic parameters, such

as storage flexural modulus, loss flexural modulus, storage

shear modulus, loss shear modulus and loss factor or

damping efficiency (tan delta), were determined in a

resonant frequency mode. The nature of the transition

peak, amplitude and temps. of the moduli and the tan delta

of different compositions were shown to indicate possible

improvements of molecular interaction in the presence

of a compatibiliser. The modulus retention term, a plot of

the reduced modulus with the weight fraction of the jute

fibre, also indicated its improvement. 33 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.709649


70, No.13, 26th Dec.1998, p.2647-55

EFFECT OF COMPOUNDING TECHNIQUES ONTHE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF OILPALM EMPTY FRUIT BUNCH-POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESRozman H D; Peng G B; Ishak Z A M


Oil palm empty fruit bunch-PP composites were produced

using two types of compounding techniques, i.e. an

internal mixer and a single screw extruder. The mechanical

and water absorption properties of both types of

composites were investigated. 25 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.709569


38, No.11, Nov.1998, p.1862-72

CELL MORPHOLOGY AND PROPERTYRELATIONSHIPS OF MICROCELLULARFOAMED PVC/WOOD FIBRE COMPOSITESMatuana L M; Park C B; Balatinecz J J

Michigan,Technological University; Toronto,University

Details are given of the characterisation of microcellular

foamed PVC/wood fibre composites. The effect of

changes in cell morphology and surface modification

of fibres on tensile and impact properties are discussed.

40 refs.

CANADA; USA

Accession no.709519

Item 374Second International Conference on Carbon Black.

Conference proceedings.

Mulhouse, 27th-30th Sept.1993, p.389-92. 51B

INVESTIGATION ON THE POTENTIAL OFRICE HUSK ASH AS CARBON BLACKREPLACEMENT FOR EPOXIDISED NATURALRUBBER VULCANISATESNasir M; Ishak Z A M; Bakar A A; Azahari B


(Societe Francaise de Chimie; CNRS; Haute-

Alsace,Universite; Societe Industrielle de Mulhouse;

Ecole Nationale Superieure de Chimie de Mulhouse)



The search for potential new fillers, particularly those of

lignocellulosic based, which are of obvious advantages

of being cheap, in abundance and renewable are not new.

In fact, some have been used in commercial applications.

Previous studies by Haxo and Mehta, and Mehta and Pitt,

and later Nasir and Low, have clearly indicated the vast

potentials of rice husk ash (RHA) fillers in rubbers, with

properties comparable to commercial silicas. Earlier

studies have found that these fillers enhance the flexural

modulus of PP. In short, preliminary investigations reveal

the potential of RHA as fillers in polymers albeit semi-

reinforcing or as extender type fillers. A further attempt

is made to examine its use as a reinforcing agent in rubber,

particularly epoxidised NR is presented. ENR is chosen

specifically as it has been found to be more receptive to

silica and carbon black, even without the presence of

coupling agent. The influence of A-189 silane coupling

agent on the vulcanisate properties is also described.

Comparisons with a commercial silica and carbon black

are presented. 9 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.709149

Item 375Advanced Composites Bulletin

Dec.1998, p.2-3

PLASTICS REINFORCED WITH NATURALFIBRES FOR TRIM COMPONENTS

Kafus Environmental Industries has established a wholly-

owned subsidiary, Kafus Bio-Composites, to develop

applications for materials reinforced with kenaf fibres,

particularly in the automotive industry. Kenaf composites

have good impact strengths, are 20-30% lighter in weight

than GRPs, are less likely to warp under extreme heat

and humidity and can be recycled. The long outer fibres

of kenaf can be combined with polymers, such as PP, to

create automotive trim components such as door panels,

seat backs, headliners and package trays.

KAFUS ENVIRONMENTAL INDUSTRIES LTD.CANADA

Accession no.708784

Item 376Polyurethanes Expo ’98. Conference proceedings.

Dallas, Tx., 17th-20th Sept.1998, p.397-9. 43C6

NATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCEDPOLYURETHANES FOR THE PRODUCTION OFAUTOMOTIVE TRIM PARTSMuller H; Seagrave T D

Bayer AG; Bayer Corp.

(SPI,Polyurethane Div.)

Natural fibre-reinforced PUs are being used more and

more in the automotive industry. Bayer has recently

developed polymer systems based on PU raw materials

and, in cooperation with its Hennecke subsidiary, has

developed efficient process engineering for manufacturing

trim from a combination of natural fibre mat and a PU

system. It can now produce parts with wall thicknesses

of 1.5-2.0 mm - depending on the unit weight of the natural

fibre mat used. End products weigh from 1,250 to 1,600

g/m2 with natural fibre contents between 55 and 65% by

weight. These end products weigh about 45% less than

products using conventional injection moulding materials,

for example. This potential weight reduction is attractive

to car manufacturers. Bayer’s raw materials are marketed

under the trade name Baypreg; Hennecke offers the

associated plant engineering under the name NafpurTec.


USA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.708727


37, No.4, Nov.1998, p.495-507

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OFPOLYETHYLENE-OIL PALM EMPTY FRUITBUNCH COMPOSITESRozman H D; Ismail H; Jaffri R M; Aminullah A;

Ishak Z A M


The mechanical properties of composites consisting of

HDPE and oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) fibre are

reported. Three sizes of EFB at different filler loadings

are compounded with a single-screw compounder.

Modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture

(MOR) of the EFB-HDPE composites increase and

decrease, respectively, with increasing filler loading.

Samples with smaller sized particles display higher MOE

and MOR compared to the larger ones. Flexural toughness

and tensile and impact strengths decrease as more filler

is incorporated in the composite. Scanning electron

micrographs show that the particles embedded in the

matrix are in the form of irregular-shaped fibre bundles

and the tensile failure occurs through extensive fibre

bundles pull-out and debonding. 15 refs.

MALAYSIA

Accession no.704285


37, No.4, Nov.1998, p.451-68

THERMOPLASTICS REINFORCED WITHWOOD FILLERS: A LITERATURE REVIEWBledzki A K; Reihmane S; Gassan

Kassel,Universitat; Riga,Technical University

Problems concerning the processing of thermoplastics

reinforced with wood fillers are discussed. The high

level of moisture absorption by the filler, its poor

wettability, as well as the insufficient adhesion between

untreated filler and the polymer matrix are reasons for

the low tensile strength and high moisture sorption of

composites. These shortcomings of composites can be



prevented by the modification of the interface. The

fibre-matrix compatibility and the composites’

properties can be improved by using some physical

(e.g. steam explosion, corona, cold plasma) and

chemical (crosslinking and acetylation of cellulose,

grafting, use of coupling agents) methods. Modified

wood-polymer interaction mechanisms are complex

and specific for each definite system and processing

conditions. Cellulose crosslinking and acetylation

reduce hygroscopicity and swelling of wood and wood

composites. Grafting of styrene to wood is effective

for wood-PS systems. The best coupling agent for

wood-thermoplastics is polymethylenepolyphenyl

isocyanate. Silanes’ coupling effect can be increased

with additives to the polymer matrix. Optimisation of

technological parameters of wood-thermoplastics

processing is necessary. 52 refs.


LATVIA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.704282


85, No.3, March 1995, p.23-4

FLAX VERSUS GLASSMieck K P; Reussmann T


Forschung eV

Flax-mat-reinforced thermoplastics are compared with

glass mat reinforced thermoplastics in terms of

mechanical properties. Consideration is given to the

influence on properties made by fibre opening processes

and the mat forming process, and also the use of surface

treatment to improve fibre matrix adhesion in

polypropylene/flax composites is examined. 14 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.703671


85, No.3, March 1995, p.10-1

AUTOMOBILE CONSTRUCTION ANDECOLOGYSchlosser T; Folster T

Daimler-Benz AG

A description is given of two processes involving the use

of natural fibre-reinforced plastics based on flax for

automotive applications. The first is the express process

for engineering structural carrier components for

functional purposes which uses natural fibre-reinforced

PP, and the second involves a SRIM process for thin-

walled inside lining parts. 3 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.703665


84, No.11, Nov.1994, p.22-3

JUTE FIBRES - AN ALTERNATIVE TO GLASSFIBRES IN REINFORCEMENT OFPOLYPROPYLENE?Wuttke B; Hinrichsen G

TU Berlin

The substitution of glass fibre-reinforced PP by jute fibre-

reinforced polymers is discussed with reference to

mechanical properties and specific gravity. Laminates are

produced from jute fibre-reinforced PP using the film

stacking process, and their properties are compared to

those of glass mat reinforced PP. Tensile strength in quasi-

isotropic and unidirectional laminates is compared. 4 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.703633


58, No.9, Sept.1998, p.1471-85

EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENT ON THEPROPERTIES OF LDPE COMPOSITESREINFORCED WITH PINEAPPLE-LEAF FIBREGeorge J; Bhagawan S S; Thomas S


The influence of water environment on the sorptioncharacteristics of LDPE reinforced with pineapple leaf

fibres was studied. The effects of fibre loading,

temperature and chemical treatment on the water uptake

were evaluated. Correlations between theoretical and

experimental sorption results were examined. The effects

of water uptake on mechanical properties were also


INDIA

Accession no.702915

Item 383Journal of Advanced Materials

30, No.2, 1998, p.32-8

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF KENAF BASTFIBER REINFORCED EPOXY MATRIXCOMPOSITE PANELSZimmerman J M; Losure N S

Mississippi,State University

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) bast fibre was used in a non-

woven mat form and embedded into an epoxy resin

matrix. Plaques with three different fibre volume fractions

were prepared by hand lay-up using 3, 4 and 10 layers of

non-woven mat. Coupons were cut from these plaques

and tested for impact and tensile strength. The random

kenaf fibre mat did not reinforce the TS characteristics or

the impact strength of the epoxy resin matrix. Percent

elongation and Young’s modulus were calculated from

the data. The strength and elongation values were



compared with the fibre volume fraction of the respective

test plaques. Results showed that kenaf bast fibres served

as a good filler for thermoset composites due to the fibre’s

high yield strengths. Kenaf fibres possessed advantages

such as low cost, biodegradability and environmental

safety, while serving as a renewable resource. 14 refs.

USA

Accession no.702804


70, No.11, 12th Dec.1998, p.2121-31

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF WOODFLOURUNSATURATED POLYESTER COMPOSITESMarcovich N E; Reboredo M M; Aranguren M I


The effect of the addition of chemically-modified wood

flour on the final properties of unsaturated polyester

composites was studied. The filler was treated with an

alkaline solution to increase its interfacial area and then

modified with maleic anhydride under severe reaction

conditions (140C, 24 h). No improvement in the

mechanical behaviour of polyester-wood flour composites

was found when particles were only alkali-treated, while

the composites prepared with maleic anhydride-treated

wood flour exhibited better performance under

compressive loads. Simple mechanical models used to

fit the experimental flexural behaviour indicated that good

compatibility between filler and matrix was achieved

regardless of the type (treated or untreated) of

reinforcement used. 20 refs.

ARGENTINA

Accession no.702774

Item 385Advanced Materials & Composites News

20, No.22, 16th Nov.1998, p.3

COMPOSITE MATERIAL DEVELOPED IN NEWZEALAND FROM PLASTICS AND PINE WOODFIBRES

It is briefly reported that Auckland University has

developed a high-grade industrial material from plastics

and pine wood fibres. The University has developed a

prototype machine which allows radiata pine wood fibres

to be formed into large sheets. This has provided the edge

in developing a composite material that enables natural

wood fibres to be blended or reinforced with virgin or

waste polymers.

AUCKLAND,UNIVERSITYNEW ZEALAND

Accession no.702574


METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A PALLET

MADE OF COMPOSITE FIBER REINFORCEDPOLYOLEFINEvans D W

A method of manufacturing a pallet made of a composite

cellulose fibre reinforced polyethylene is disclosed. The

composite polyethylene is produced through a process

which blends preheated cellulose fibres with molten

polyethylene. The blend of polyethylene and fibres is

combined with ozone gas to form a polyethylene and fibre

matrix. The polyethylene and fibre matrix is then fed to

an extruder where it is further mixed, heated and then

extruded through one of a series of dies to create the

components of the pallet. The pallet has excellent rigidity

and is welded together by coating meeting surfaces with

a bonding material of blended high density polyethylene

and iron oxide, placing the pallet into an electromagnetic

field, and energising the pallet with electromagnetic field

having a frequency between 1 megahertz and 100

megahertz, causing the bonding material to melt and fuse

the meeting surfaces.

USA

Accession no.701698


7, No.3, 1998, p.81-5

CRITICAL FIBRE LENGTH AND APPARENTINTERFACIAL SHEAR STRENGTH OF SINGLEFLAX FIBRE POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESvan den Oever M J A; Bos H L

ATO-DLO

The stress transfer in both elementary and technical single

flax fibre/PP composites was studied by determining the

critical fibre length and the apparent interfacial shear

strength. The influence of improved fibre-matrix

interaction was examined and the results compared with

data in the literature. The study indicated that the critical

fibre length for elementary flax fibres was equal to or

even higher than the flax fibre lengths found after

extrusion and injection moulding processes. Furthermore,

addition of maleic anhydride-modified PP to the matrix

resulted in an apparent interfacial shear strength for

elementary flax fibres close to the shear yield strength of

the matrix, while for technical fibres the interfacial shear

strength was somewhat lower. 11 refs.



Accession no.700279

Item 388Materials Challenge - Diversification and the Future.

Volume 40: Book 1. Symposium proceedings.

Anaheim, Ca., 8th-11th May 1995, p.221-31. 627

BANANA FIBRE-REINFORCED COMPOSITESTobias B C; Zhu W H

Victoria,University of Technology



(SAMPE)

An attempt is made to determine whether banana fibre

strands can be consolidated into a fibre-reinforced

composite lamina using a vulcanised hydraulic platen

press. The proportions of constituents and mechanical

properties of fibre strands and composite lamina are

investigated. A composite with 28% fibre by volume,

resulted in a tensile strength of 54 MPa and a flexural

strength of 97 MPa. The values of modulus of elasticity

are 1.0 GPa and 6.5 GPa in tension and bending,

respectively. These values are found to be higher than

that of the polyester matrix used. The toughness of the

composite, both in tensile and bending test, is about 1.5

times greater than the polyester matrix. Banana fibre

strands reinforced polyester composite with fibre volume

fraction greater than the critical volume fraction is shown

to be a valuable source of material for commercial

application. 10 refs.

AUSTRALIA

Accession no.698119

Item 389Materials Challenge - Diversification and the Future.

Volume 40: Book 2. Symposium proceedings.

Anaheim, Ca., 8th-11th May 1995, p.1002-10. 627

INVESTIGATION OF CREEP PROPERTIES OFNATURAL COMPOSITE MATERIALTobias B C; Lieng V T

Victoria,University of Technology

(SAMPE)

Creep testing is conducted to determine the creep

properties of a natural material-based hybrid composite.

This material consists of 50% abaca fibre and 20%

powdered rice husk embedded in polyester resin. The

material is tested in tension at three temperature levels,

and at three constant stress levels using a dynamic

mechanical analysis. The creep curves show the standard

regions of an ideal creep curve such as primary and

secondary creep stage as well as the recovery stage. The

results show that the minimum creep rate of the hybrid

composite increases with increase of temperature and

applied stress. By plotting minimum creep rate against

stress, the stress exponents vary from 0.0252 at 20 deg.C

to 0.0068 at 120 deg.C. Comparison of the creep

behaviour between the polyester resin used in this study

and the hybrid composite indicates that the hybrid

composite showed a significant creep resistance than the

polyester matrix, since the minimum creep rate of the

hybrid composite is lower than that of the polyester resin.

6 refs.

AUSTRALIA

Accession no.698011


19, No.4, Aug.1998, p.377-82

SHORT TERM FLEXURAL CREEP BEHAVIOROF WOOD FIBER/POLYPROPYLENECOMPOSITESByung-Dae Park; Balatinecz J J

Toronto,University

Short-term flexural creep tests were conducted to

investigate the creep behaviour of wood fibre/PP

composites. Three experimental parameters were selected,

i.e. addition of a wetting agent, temp. and wood fibre

concentration. All the creep curves were presented in

terms of relative creep as a percentage of instantaneous

(initial) strain. The creep power law model was used

accurately to fit the creep data. The addition of a wetting

agent significantly reduced the creep at high stress, but

had little effect at a lower stress level. The extent of

relative creep increased with increasing temp. It was found

that the slope of the power law model was directly

proportional to the temp. The addition of wood fibres to

pure polymer greatly improved the creep resistance of

the matrix polymer. The relative creep of the composites

decreased with an increase in wood fibre concentration,

but the composite showed relatively large creep compared

with that of solid wood. It was found that both the time

exponent and slope of the power law model were inversely

related to wood fibre concentration. The flexural modulus

of the composites also had an inverse relationship with

the time exponent. 14 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.697131


69, No.10, 6th Sept.1998, p.1891-9

BAMBOO FIBRE-REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITES: A STUDY OFTHE MECHANICAL PROPERTIESXiaoya Chen; Qipeng Guo; Yongli Mi

Hong Kong,University of Science & Technology

Bamboo fibre-reinforced plastic (BFRP) composite was

developed as a cheap substitute for wood. To enhance

adhesion between the bamboo fibre and the PP matrix,

maleic anhydride-grafted PP (MAPP) was prepared and

used as a compatibiliser for the composite. Mechanical

properties of the composites are reported, e.g. tensile

strength, tensile modulus, yield strength at break, and

impact strength. 15 refs.

HONG KONG

Accession no.694879


19, No.3, June 1998, p.287-300

INTERFACES IN POLYOLEFIN/CELLULOSICFIBRE COMPOSITES: CHEMICAL COUPLING,MORPHOLOGY, CORRELATION WITHADHESION AND AGEING IN MOISTURE



Gauthier R; Joly C; Coupas A C; Gauthier H; Escoubes M

Claude Bernard,Universite

The characteristics of pure cellulose and wood fibres when

associated with thermoplastic matrices for composite

applications were detailed in this comprehensive review

paper. Each step of composite elaboration and

characterisation was considered, to summarise the most

important characteristics of cellulosic fibre for composite

applications and to point out recent aspects and

developments, particularly in the domain of water

interaction with fibres alone (treated or not treated) and

for the composites made from these two kinds of fibres.

161 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.689733

Item 393Journal of Polymer Engineering

17, No.5, 1997/1998, p.383-404

ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF PINEAPPLEFIBRE REINFORCED PE COMPOSITESJayamol G; Bhagawan S S; Thomas S


Pineapple fibre-reinforced LDPE composites were

prepared by solution mixing. The dielectric constant,

volume resistivity, and dielectric loss factor were

evaluated as a function of frequency, fibre content, andfibre length. The influence of chemical treatments on

electrical properties were studied. 23 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.689591


Atlanta, Ga., 26th-30th April 1998, p.1968-74. 012

CHARACTERISATION OF MICROCELLULARFOAMED PLASTIC/CELLULOSIC FIBRECOMPOSITESMatuana L M; Park C B; Balatinecz J J

Toronto,University

(SPE)

Microcellular foamed PVC/cellulosic fibre composites

with unique cell morphology and material composition

are characterised. The void fraction of the microcellular

foamed PVC/cellulosic fibre composites is controlled

by the foaming temperature and foaming time. Tensile

and impact tests are performed on the foamed

composites to investigate the dependence of these

properties on the void fraction of foamed specimens.

The notched Izod impact strength of microcellular

foamed PVC/cellulosic fibre composites increases as

the void fraction increases. When the void fraction is

56%, the notched Izod impact strength of foamed PVC/

cellulosic fibre composites is almost three times as high

as that of the unfoamed composites. However, the

tensile strength and modulus decrease as the void

fraction increases. 32 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.687470


5, No.3, 1998, p.201-23

IMPROVED INTERACTIONS IN CHEMICALLYMODIFIED PINEAPPLE LEAF FIBREREINFORCED POLYETHYLENE COMPOSITESGeorge J; Bhagawan S S; Thomas S


Mechanical properties of pineapple leaf fibre reinforced

LDPE composites were studied with special reference to

the effects of interface modifications. Various chemical

treatments using reagents such as sodium hydroxide,

poly(methylene)poly(phenyl) isocyanate (PMPPIC),

silane, benzoyl peroxide, dicumyl peroxide and potassium

permanganate were carried out to improve the interfacial

bonding. IR spectroscopy and SEM were used to

characterise the interface and the modified fibre surface.

30 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.685319


69, No.2, 11th July 1998, p.329-38

SHORT JUTE FIBRE-REINFORCEDPOLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITES. EFFECT OFCOMPATIBILISERRana A K; Mandal A; Mitra B C; Jacobson R; Rowell

R; Banerjee A N

Indian Jute Industries’ Research Assn.; US,Forest

Products Laboratory; Calcutta,University

Jute fibres were chopped to approximately 100 mm

length and then processed through a granulator having

an 8 mm screen. Final fibre lengths were up to 10 mm

maximum. These fibres, along with PP granules and a

compatibiliser (Epolene G-3002, maleated PP from

Eastman) were mixed in a K-mixer at a fixed rpm, 5500,

and dumped at a fixed temperature, 390F, following a

single-stage procedure. The fibre loadings were 30, 40,

50 and 60 wt.%, and at each fibre loading, compatibiliser

doses were 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 wt.%. The K-mixer samples

were pressed and granulated before being moulded into

test specimens using a Cincinnatti Milacron 33T

injection moulding machine. At 60% by weight of fibre

loading, the use of the compatibiliser improved the

flexural strength as much as 100%, the TS by 120%,

and the impact strength (unnotched) by 175%. Tensile

energy absorption decreased with increase in fibre

loading, but this could be remedied by addition of up to

3% compatibiliser. Above 4% compatibiliser,

engineering properties deteriorated. Remarkable



improvements were attained even with 1%

compatibiliser. Interface studies were carried out by

SEM to investigate the fibre surface morphology, fibre

pull-out, and fibre-polymer interface. 27 refs.

INDIA; USA

Accession no.684706


17, No.7, 1998, p.651-72

STRESS RELAXATION BEHAVIOR OF SHORTPINEAPPLE FIBER-REINFORCEDPOLYETHYLENE COMPOSITESGeorge J; Sreekala M S; Thomas S; Bhagawan S S;

Neelakantan N R

Mahatma Gandhi,University; Vikram Sarabhai Space

Centre; Indian Institute of Technology

The stress relaxation behaviour of short pineapple fibre-

reinforced PE composites in tension was studied with

emphasis on the effects of fibre loading, fibre length,

chemical treatment and fibre orientation. The stress

relaxation rate was found to decrease with strain level. It

was found that incorporation of fibre resulted in two

relaxation processes. The rate of relaxation was decreased

with increasing fibre content. It was observed that

chemical treatment had a significant effect on the

relaxation behaviour. Composites containing fibres

oriented longitudinally had higher relaxation rate than

transversely oriented composites. Ageing of samples

improved the relaxation modulus due to improved

interfacial adhesion at higher temp. It was demonstrated

that the stress relaxation modulus values measured at

different strains could be superimposed by a shift along

the log. time axis to yield master curves of modulus over

an extended time period. 27 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.682897


68, No.10, 6th June 1998, p.1567-73

WOOD-FIBER REINFORCEMENT OFSTYRENE-MALEIC ANHYDRIDECOPOLYMERSSimonsen J; Jacobsen R; Rowell R

Oregon,State University; US,Forest Products

Laboratory

Styrene-maleic anhydride copolymers (SMA) containing

either 7 or 14% maleic anhydride were filled with either

pine flour or dry-process aspen fibre from a medium

density fibreboard (MDF) plant. Material properties of

the filled and unfilled SMA plastics were compared with

those of aspen-fibre-filled and unfilled PS. 14 refs.

USA

Accession no.681580


68, No.9, 31st May 1998, p.1417-21

ABSORPTION OF STEAM AND WATER ATAMBIENT TEMPERATURE IN WOODPOLYMER COMPOSITES PREPARED FROMAGRO-WASTE AND NOVOLACMishra S; Naik J B


Composites of banana, hemp and Agave fibres with

novolac resin were prepared at a 50/50 wt/wt ratio. These

fibres were also treated with maleic anhydride and it was

found that composites based on treated fibres showed

higher absorption of steam (at 100C) up to 12 h, while

beyond 18 h it was lower than for the untreated fibre

composites. At ambient temp., however, the absorption

of water was lower for composites based on maleic

anhydride-treated fibre than for composites based on

untreated fibres. The Shore-D hardness was generally

higher for composites based on maleic anhydride-treated

fibres. 6 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.680859


68, No.11, 13th June 1998, p.1845-55

INFLUENCE OF THERMOPLASTICELASTOMERS ON ADHESION INPOLYETHYLENE-WOOD FLOURCOMPOSITESOksman K; Lindberg H

Lulea,University of Technology

A maleated triblock styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene

(SEBS-MA) compatibiliser was added to recycled low-

density polyethylene/wood flour (LDPE/WF) composite

to improve its mechanical properties. Maximum strength

of the composites occurred with a 4wt% addition. Impact

strength and elongation at break were also improved,

but the stiffness was decreased. The interfacial adhesion

between the different phases was characterised using

dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, a lap shear

adhesion test and scanning electron microscopy. There

was interaction between the ethylene/butylene part of

the copolymer and the wood flour. The shear lap test

showed that the adhesion between the wood and SEBS-

MA was better than between the wood and SEBS.

Investigation of the fracture surfaces confirmed good

adhesion between the wood particles and the LDPE/

SEBS-MA matrix. 26 refs.


Accession no.680615


31, No.8, 21st April 1998, p.2693-6



IMPROVEMENT OF STARCH FILMPERFORMANCES USING CELLULOSEMICROFIBRILSDufresne A; Vignon M R

Grenoble,Joseph Fourier University

An attempt was made to improve the thermomechanical

properties and to decrease the water sensitivity of starch-

based systems, while preserving the biodegradability of

the material. Cellulose microfibrils were used as an

inexpensive and environmentally-friendly filler. They

were extracted from potato parenchyma cell wall by a

chemical treatment leading to purified cellulose, followed

by a mechanical treatment in order to obtain a

homogeneous suspension due to the individualisation of

the microfibrils. 12 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.678379


68, No.4, 25th April 1998, p.681-6

ABSORPTION OF WATER AT AMBIENTTEMPERATURE AND STEAM IN WOOD-POLYMER COMPOSITES PREPARED FROMAGROWASTE AND POLYSTYRENEMishra S; Naik J B


Hemp, banana and agave fibres were used for the

preparation of wood-polymer composites using PS in the

ratio of 50:50 w/w. These fibres were esterified with

maleic anhydride and the effect of maleic anhydride was

studied on the adsorption of water at ambient temperature

and steam in wood-polymer composites made from said

fibres and PS. 6 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.676659


No.127, Feb.1998, p.193-203

THERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITES BASED ONFLAX FIBRES AND PP: INFLUENCE OF FIBRELENGTH AND FIBRE VOLUME FRACTION ONMECHANICAL PROPERTIESPeijs T; Garkhail S; Heijenrath R; van den Oever M;

Bos H

Eindhoven,University; Wageningen,Agrotechnological

Research Institute

Flax fibre-reinforced PP was manufactured using a film

stacking method and a paper making process. The

influence of fibre length and fibre content on stiffness

and strength was compared with GRP, including the

influence of using maleic anhydride grafted PP.

Correlations between experimental results and theoretical

predictions are discussed. 21 refs.



Accession no.672898


67, No.9, 28th Feb.1998, p.1503-13

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES ANDMORPHOLOGY OF IMPACT MODIFIEDPOLYPROPYLENE-WOOD FLOUR(PP-WF)COMPOSITESOksman K; Clemons C

Lulea,University of Technology; USDA Forest

Products Laboratory

The mechanical properties and morphology of PP-WF

composites with different impact modifiers and maleated

PP(MAPP) as a compatibiliser were studied. Two different

EPDMs and one maleated styrene-ethylene/butylene-

styrene triblock copolymer(SEBS-MA) were used as

impact modifiers. All three elastomers increased the

impact strength of the PP-WF composites but the addition

of maleated EPDM and SEBS gave the greatest

improvements in impact strength. Addition of MAPP did

not affect the impact properties of the composites but had

a positive effect on the composite unnotched impact

strength when used together with elastomers. Tensile tests

showed that MAPP had a negative effect on the EB and a

positive effect on TS. The impact modifiers were found

to decrease the stiffness of the composites. SEM showed

that maleated EPDM and SEBS had a stronger affinity

for the wood surfaces than did unmodified EPDM. MAPP

further enhanced adhesion between WF and impact-

modified PP systems. 25 refs.

SCANDINAVIA; SWEDEN; USA; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.671143

Item 405Polymer Journal (Japan)

29, No.12, 1997, p.1007-11

FINE STRUCTURE ANALYSIS OF RAMIEFIBRES BY SMALL ANGLE X-RAYSCATTERING TECHNIQUEMisra T; Shukla J; Khan M N; Bisoyi D K; Patel T

Orissa,Regional Engineering College; Orissa,IGIT;

Orissa,Gandhi Mahavidyalaya

Small-angle X-ray scattering studies on ramie fibres

compared the macromolecular structure of natural fibre

with fibres treated in sodium hydroxide solution at

different concentration were presented. 24 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.670324


67, No.6, 7th Feb.1998, p.1093-100

STUDIES ON JUTE-REINFORCED



COMPOSITES, ITS LIMITATIONS, AND SOMESOLUTIONS THROUGH CHEMICALMODIFICATIONS OF FIBERSMitra B C; Basak R K; Sarkar M

Indian Jute Industries’ Research Assn.

Some water-thin, solvent-dilutable low molecular weight

precondensate based on phenol formaldehyde, cashew

nutshell liquid (CNSL)-modified phenolic resin, modified

melamine formaldehyde condensate and CNSL were

examined with the object of providing a jute composite

of higher strength and good water resistance. Pretreated

non-woven jute was impregnated with phenol

formaldehyde resin, and composite board prepared

therefrom. The board was tested for bending strength,

tensile strength, thickness swelling, and water absorption.

Thermal analyses, e.g. DSC and thermogravimetry, were

also conducted on jute and pretreated fibres. 20 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.670308


REINFORCING BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERTomka I

Bio-Tec Biologische Naturverpackungen GmbH

In order that a substantially biologically degradable

polymer is prevented from at least partially losing itsbiological degradability when reinforced by additives

such as fibres and the like, it is proposed that natural fibres

such as, in particular, sisal or ramie fibres, be used.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.670248


87, No.12, Dec.1997, p.9-10

INJECTION MOULDING OF NATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCED PLASTICSColberg M; Sauerbier M

Ford Werke AG

Mass production of injection moulded natural fibre-

reinforced automotive parts is discussed. Flax and cotton

fibre reinforced PP, PP/EPDM and ABS are investigated

as to their suitability for these applications. Despite

reduced weight and costs, the parts are shown to still have

properties lying within the specifications set for

conventional reinforced parts. 4 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.666980


18, No.6, Dec.1997, p.673-80

MODELLING AND SIMULATION OF THEVACUUM FORMING OF WOOD FIBRE-FILLEDTHERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITESLiu S-J

Chang Gung,College of Medicine & Technology

Details are given of the development of a novel

viscoelastic model of a two-dimensional finite element

scheme with eight noded overlay isoparametric elements

to numerically simulate the vacuum forming of wood

fibre-filled isotactic PP. Computed results were compared

with experimental data. 27 refs.

CHINA

Accession no.666684


Manufacturing

28A, No.12, 1997, p.1001-5

INFLUENCE OF FIBRE-SURFACE TREATMENTON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF JUTE-PP COMPOSITESGassan J; Bledzki A K

Kassel,Universitat

Details are given of the effectiveness of propylene-maleic

anhydride graft copolymer as coupling agents in jute-

reinforced PP composites. The influence of fibre treatment

and copolymer concentration on mechanical propertiesis discussed. Fibre-matrix adhesion was examined by

SEM. 38 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.666573


41, No.11, Dec.1997, p.22

FORD PIONEERS MOVE TO HEMP FIBRE

Ford is leading the drive to replace glass fibre with hemp

for reinforcing plastics in a number of automotive

components. Hemcore is providing Ford component

suppliers with needlepunched hemp fibre. Bioforce Hemp

450 is used as a chopped strand mat replacement in the

parcel shelf for the high roof Ford Transit van. The

significant cost and weight savings associated with using

hemp are the key reasons for this move by Ford. Hempmat

250 has also been trialed for use as a core material in

thick composites.

HEMCORE LTD.; FORD MOTOR CO.EUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; UK;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.664756


67, No.1, 3rd Jan.1998, p.79-85



EFFECT OF ADDITIVES ON REINFORCEMENTOF RADIATION-INDUCED JUTE-URETHANEPOLYMER COMPOSITESAli K M I; Khan M A; Balo S K; Ahmad M U

Bangladesh,Atomic Energy Commission;

Jahangirnagar,University

Thick polymer films were prepared under gamma-

irradiation using urethane acrylate in the presence of N-

vinyl pyrrolidone, ethylhexyl acrylate and trimethylol

propane triacrylate. Jute dust and hessian cloth (jute

fabric) were used to prepare composites from the prepared

resin matrices. Some of their physical and mechanical

properties were studied. Some additives such as acetic

acid, acrylamide, urea, talc and titanium oxide were

incorporated into the formulation to examine their effect

on the physical and mechanical properties. Water

absorption and weathering resistance of the resin and

composites were also investigated. 12 refs.

BANGLADESH

Accession no.664532


66, No.6, 7th Nov.1997, p.1163-73

DIFFUSE REFLECTANCE FOURIERTRANSFORM INFRARED SPECTRA OF WOODFIBERS TREATED WITH MALEATEDPOLYPROPYLENESKazayawoko M; Balatinecz J J; Woodhams R T

Toronto,University

The esterification reaction between wood fibres and

maleated PP was studied. The reaction was conducted in

a reactor in the presence of xylene used as a solvent and

sodium hypophosphite as catalyst. The reaction between

wood fibres and pure maleic anhydride was also

investigated. The appearance of an IR absorption band

near 1730/cm indicated that maleated PP chemically

reacted by esterification with bleached Kraft cellulose.

No direct evidence of an esterification reaction was,

however, obtained between thermomechanical pulp and

maleated PP. The FTIR studies also showed that both

bleached Kraft cellulose and thermomechanical pulp

reacted with maleic anhydride with the formation of ester

links. 29 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.658677


87, No.9, Sept. 1997, p.25-7

VEHICLE PARTS REINFORCED WITHNATURAL FIBRESSchloesser T; Knothe J

Daimler-Benz AG

The substitution of natural fibre-reinforced plastics in

place of glass fibre-reinforced plastics is discussed, with

reference to their use in car components. An overview is

presented of the preparation and treatment of fibres, and

of the mechanical properties of both types of fibre

reinforced plastics. Economic, environmental and

performance advantages are examined. 3 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.655707


5, No.4, 1997, p.273-9

THERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITES BASED ONJUTE FIBRE TREATED WITH CARDANOL-FORMALDEHYDETon That Minh Tan

HoChiMinh City,University

The effect of surface treatment of jute fibre by aqueous

sodium hydroxide solution and cardanol-

formaldehyde(CF) was evaluated by diffuse reflectance

FTIR spectroscopy and carbon-13 NMR spectroscopy and

the fibre tensile properties and the fibre water absorption

were measured. Composites based on untreated and

treated fibres and common thermoplastic films (LDPE,

HDPE and PP) were also prepared by hot press moulding.

Treatment of jute fibre with CF reduced the water

absorption of composites and improved the tensile and

flexural strengths, especially when the samples were

immersed in water. 39 refs.

VIETNAM

Accession no.653120


37, No.7, July 1997, p.1137-47

PROCESSING AND CELL MORPHOLOGYRELATIONSHIPS FOR MICROCELLULARFOAMED PVC/WOOD FIBRE COMPOSITESMaturana L M; Park C B; Balatinecz J J

Toronto,University

The effects of the materials and the processing conditions

on the cell morphology of foamed PVC/wood fibre

composites are studied with a view to establishing their

process-structure relationships. Each step of microcellular

PVC/wood fibre composites processing is addressed,

including surface treatment of the wood fibre, mixing of

polymer and wood fibre, manufacture of the composites,

saturation of the composites with gas, microcellular

foaming of the composites, and characterisation of cell

morphology. The cellular morphologies of the foamed

PVC/wood fibre composites are a strong function of the

content of plasticiser and the surface treatment of wood

fibre as well as the gas saturation and foaming conditions.

48 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.650821




65, No.6, 8th Aug.1997, p.1227-35

POLYPROPYLENE-WOOD FIBRECOMPOSITES: EFFECT OF TREATMENT ANDMIXING CONDITIONS ON MECHANICALPROPERTIESCoutinho F M B; Costa T H S; Carvalho D L

Rio de Janeiro,Universidade Federal

Polypropylene/wood fibre composites were prepared at

three different temperatures: 170, 180 and 190 C. The

surface of wood fibres was modified using silane coupling

agents and/or coating with PP or maleated PP. The fibre

coating was performed by propylene polymerisation in

the presence of wood fibres or by immersion in an o-

dichlorobenzene polypropylene (or maleated PP) solution.

Tensile and three-point bending tests were performed to

evaluate the adhesion between matrix and wood fibres.

13 refs.

BRAZIL

Accession no.650316


18, No.3, June 1997, p.425-31

COMPARISON OF COMPOUNDINGPROCESSES FOR WOOD FIBRE/THERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITESByung-Dae Park; Balatinecz J J

Toronto,University

The feasibility of developing a continuous compounding

process for wood fibre/thermoplastic composites using

the Szego mill, a high-speed planetary ring-roller grinding

mill, was investigated. Prior to compounding, air-dried

sawdust was ground to evaluate the grinding effect in the

mill. As the feed rate and the mill speed increased, the

particle size increased and decreased, respectively.

Sawdust particles were successfully compounded in

LLDPE using the Szego mill without any major heat

application. A Gelimat mixer, used for the compounding

of wood fibre through a high-shear thermokinetic mixing

process, was also used for comparison. Composites with

30 wt% wood fibre were prepared by both compounding

processes, and their mechanical properties were evaluated.

15 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.650245


Vol.249, July 1997, p.79-92

POLYESTER NETWORKS BASED UPONEPOXIDISED AND MALEINATED NATURALOILSWarth H; Mulhaupt R; Hoffmann B; Lawson S


Details are given of the preparation of novel families of

flexible, semiflexible and rigid crosslinked polyesters

from modified soyabean, rape-seed and linseed oils. The

resulting thermosetting polyesters were reinforced with

hemp and flax fibres. The influence of molecular

structures, curing conditions and formulations on thermal,

mechanical and morphological properties were



WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.649737


65, No.2, 11th July 1997, p.381-90

LOW-PRESSURE PLASMA POLYMERMODIFICATION FROM THE FTIR POINT OFVIEWNitschke M; Meichsner J


Details are given of the potential of FTIR spectroscopy

as a diagnostic tool for low-pressure plasma polymer

modification. PE and PS were treated in radio frequency

discharges in argon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and

tetrafluoromethane. results are compared with other

diagnostic techniques. 32 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.640374


64, No.9, 31st May 1997, p.1739-48

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF PINEAPPLELEAF FIBRE-REINFORCED POLYESTERCOMPOSITESUma Devi L; Bhagawan S S; Thomas S


Centre

The tensile, flexural, and impact behaviour of pineapple

leaf fibre-reinforced unsaturated polyester composites

were investigated as a function of fibre loading, fibre

length, and fibre surface modification. Scanning electron

microscopic studies were undertaken to examine fibre-

matrix adhesion, fibre breakage, and failure topography.

Properties were compared with other cellulose-based

natural fibre composites. 18 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.640322


64, No.11, 13th June 1997, p.2119-25

EFFECT OF CHEMICAL MODIFICATIONS ONFTIR SPECTRA. II. PHYSICOCHEMICALBEHAVIOR OF PINEAPPLE LEAF FIBER(PALF)



Samal R K; Ray M C

Ravenshaw College

Chemical modifications such as alkali treatment,

dinitrophenylation, benzoylation and benzoylation-

acetylation were carried out on a pineapple agrowaste leaf

fibre(PALF). The parent and chemically-modified PALF

were characterised by FTIR spectra, pH measurement and

detection of nitrogen. The percent moisture regain (extent

of hydrophobicity), mechanical strength and chemical

inertness of parent and chemically-modified fibres were

evaluated. The modified fibres showed significant

hydrophobicity, improved mechanical strength and

moderate chemical resistance. 19 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.640096

Item 423Antec 97. Volume II. Conference proceedings.

Toronto, 27th April-2nd May 1997, p.2046-50. 012

STRUCTURE AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIESSTUDY OF FOAMED WOOD FIBRE/POLYETHYLENE COMPOSITESDoroudiani S; Kortschot M T; Park C B

Toronto,University

(SPE)

Wood fibre/PE composites are foamed and their

mechanical properties investigated. HDPE is compoundedwith virgin kraft pulp and wood flour in a high intensity

mixer. The compounds are granulated, injection moulded

and then foamed by saturating the moulded specimens

with carbon dioxide followed by a rapid heating cycle. It

is shown that there is a weak interface between the matrix

and cellulose fillers, which preferentially nucleate foam

bubbles. The impact strength of the composites is

improved through foaming, although not to the same

extent as the impact strength of the polymer. The tensile

strength and modulus of the composites are reduced by

foaming. The structures of the foamed composites are

examined using scanning electron microscopy to

determine the density and distribution of cells to account

for this behaviour. 8 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.638338


18, No.2, April 1997, p.198-210

THERMOPLASTIC NANOCOMPOSITESFILLED WITH WHEAT STRAW CELLULOSEWHISKERS. II. EFFECT OF PROCESSING ANDMODELLINGDufresne A; Cavaille J Y; Helbert W


The reinforcing effect of cellulose microcrystals, or

whiskers, dispersed in a thermoplastic matrix, was

analysed. The effect of processing on the mechanical

properties of styrene-butyl acrylate copolymer/straw

cellulose whiskers was investigated, the materials being

processed by casting and evaporating a mixture of aqueous

suspensions of microfibrils and latex. The behaviour of

the composite was modelled by subdividing the sample

into layers with different whisker contents lying parallel

to the film surface. 42 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.635209


18, No.1, Feb.1997, p.79-89

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF WOOD FIBRE/TOUGHENED ISOTACTIC POLYPROPYLENECOMPOSITESPark B D; Balatinecz J J

Toronto,University

A study was made of the mechanical properties of

composites consisting of wood fibres in an isotactic PP

matrix which had been modified by blending with EPDM.

The addition of EPDM improved impact toughness while

reducing the stiffness and strength properties. To

compensate the non-plane strain fracture toughness, the

specimen strength ratio was adopted as a comparative

measure of toughness. The strength ratio increased with

addition of EPDM and decreased with increasing fibre

content. The work of fracture increased with EPDM

content except at large fibre concentrations. The

effectiveness of the impact modification was assessed

with the balance between tensile modulus and unnotched

impact energy as a function of fibre concentration.

Examination of fracture surfaces showed twisted fibres,

fibre breakage and fibre pull-out from the matrix. 41 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.632370


37, No.2, Feb.1997, p.476-83

BIOFIBRE-REINFORCED POLYPROPYLENECOMPOSITESKarnani R; Krishnan M; Narayan R


Interfacial adhesion in PP composites containing

lignocellulose (kenaf) fibres was enhanced by adding a

maleic anhydride grafted PP compatibiliser to the matrix

and modifying the fibre surfaces with a silane coupling

agent in aqueous solution. The modified matrix and fibres

were extruded to form compatibilised composites. Tests

on injection moulded samples showed improved

mechanical properties resulting from increased fibre/

matrix adhesion and polar interactions at the phase

boundaries. 9 refs.

USA

Accession no.632360




55, No.1, 1997, p.1-7

DEGRADABLE JUTE PLASTIC COMPOSITESUddin M K; Khan M A; Ali K M I


A urethane prepolymer with an aliphatic chain was used

to prepare several formulations, in the presence of

plasticisers and monomers with different characteristics.

Hessian cloth (a jute product) was coated with these

formulations and cured with UV radiation. Tensile

properties (such as strength and elongation) of the jute

plastic composites formed were improved. The treated

jute products (composites) were buried in soil, semi-mud,

mud and water in order to study the degradability

characteristics of the composite. They were found to be

degradable in mud, while they did not decompose in water

or soil. The composites were also treated under simulated

weathering conditions by alternating sunshine and

condensation and it was found that the composites were

significantly degraded under these conditions. 6 refs.

BANGLADESH

Accession no.621306


29, No.23, 4th Nov.1996, p.7624-6

NEW NANOCOMPOSITE MATERIALS.MICROCRYSTALLINE STARCH REINFORCEDTHERMOPLASTICDufresne A; Cavaille J Y; Helbert W


A dispersion of starch microcrystals was obtained by

acid treatment of the amorphous domain of potato starch

granules, followed by washing, centrifugation and

ultrasonic treatment. This colloidal microcrystalline was

mixed with a latex containing a copolymer obtained by

polymerising 65% w/w butyl acrylate, 34% w/w styrene,

1% acrylic acid and 1% acrylamide. The product was

freeze-dried and hot pressed. Dynamic mechanical tests

were performed on samples ranging from pure matrix

to composites filled with 60% starch microcrystals.

Storage tensile modulus versus temperature curve for

pure matrix was typical of thermoplastic behaviour.

Unexpectedly, Tg remained almost constant whatever

the concentration of filler. Tg increased with filler

content, both below and above Tg. The relaxed modulus

of film containing only 30% starch at 50C above Tg

was 100 times higher than that of the matrix. For 60%

starch it was 1000 times higher. This reinforcing effect

cannot be explained by classical models. A similar

composite based on poly(hydroxybutyrate) is mentioned

too. 23 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.621239


62, No. 9, 28th Nov. 1996, p.1347-60

KEVLAR FIBRE-EPOXY ADHESION AND ITSEFFECT ON COMPOSITE MECHANICAL ANDFRACTURE PROPERTIES BY PLASMA ANDCHEMICAL TREATMENTWu S R; Sheu G S; Shyu S S

Taiwan,National Central University

Kevlar 49 fibres were surface-modified by ammonia,

oxygen and water-plasma etching and chlorosulphonation

and subsequent reaction with some reagents (glycine,

deionised water, ethylenediamine, and 1-butanol) to

improve the adhesion to epoxy resin. After these

treatments, the changes in fibre topography, chemical

composition of the fibre surfaces, and the surface

functional groups introduced to the surface of fibres were

identified by SEM, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and

static secondary ion mass spectrometry. Interlaminar shear

strength and T-peel strength between the fibre and epoxy

resin, as measured by the short-beam test and T-peel test,

were remarkably improved by gas plasma and

chlorosulphonation (0.1% and 0.25% chlorosulphonic

acid for 30 s). However, from the results of similar fracture

toughness tests of treated and untreated composites, it is

clear that the fibre/matrix interfacial bond strength is only

a minor contributor to the fracture toughness. SEM was

also used to study the surface topography of the fracture

surfaces of composites in T-peel tests. It could be seen

from SEM observations that the improvement of fibre/

matrix interfacial bond strength often accompanied a

change in fracture mechanism. 26 refs.

TAIWAN

Accession no.617149

Item 430Polymer

37, No.24, 1996, p.5421-31

MELT RHEOLOGICAL BEHAVIOUR OF SHORTPINEAPPLE FIBRE REINFORCED LOWDENSITY POLYETHYLENE COMPOSITESGeorge J; Janardhan R; Anand J S; Bhagawan S S;

Thomas S

Mahatma Gandhi,University; Central Institute of

Plastics Engineering & Technology; Vikram Sarabhai

Space Centre

The melt rheological properties of short pineapple fibre-

reinforced LDPE composites were studied as a function

of fibre loading, fibre length, shear rate and temperature.

Melt viscosity increased with fibre loading. Chemical

treatments based on poly(methylene)-poly(phenyl)

isocyanate, silane and peroxide increased the viscosity

of the system by high fibre-matrix interfacial interaction.

The viscosity of the system decreased with increasing

temperature, but in peroxide-treated composites, viscosity

was increased because of crosslinking of the composite

at higher temperatures. Optical microscopy was used to



analyse fibre breakage during extrusion, and the

morphology of the extrudates. The latter was also analysed

by SEM. The melt flow index (MFI) of the composites

was measured and master curves were generated using

modified viscosity and shear rate function with MFI as

one of the parameters. 30 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.616294


40, No.11, Nov.1996, p.16

STINGING NETTLES: A PROMISINGREINFORCEMENT FOR PLASTICS

Mercedes-Benz is now using animal hair and natural

fibres in upholstery, door panels and rear shelves of its

cars. The company says it is actually looking to replace

glass fibre with natural fibre alternatives. Ramie yields

fibres which are almost as resistant to tearing as glass,

but processing proved a problem. Daimler-Benz

Aerospace found a suitable technology and the material

is currently being tested as a possible replacement in

interior fittings for the Airbus. Various forms of polymer

matrix are being explored. PU, which can be processed

at a lower temperature, is promising. Daimler-Benz has

developed a combined extrusion compression moulding

technique to embed the natural fibre reinforcement in

the polymer matrix.

DAIMLER-BENZ AGEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; EUROPEAN UNION; GERMANY;

WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.610670

Item 432Journal of Cellular Plastics

32, No.5, Sept/Oct.1996, p.449-69

CHARACTERISATION OF MICROCELLULARFOAMED PVC/CELLULOSIC-FIBRECOMPOSITESMatuana-Malanda L; Park C B; Balatinecz J J

Toronto,University

The feasibility of the production of microcellular PVC/

cellulosic-fibre composites and the effect of the fibre

content on the cell morphology were studied. Emphasis

is given to fibre surface treatment. 47 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.608368


17, No.4, Aug.1996, p.612-9

TENSILE BEHAVIOUR OF NANOCOMPOSITESFROM LATEX AND CELLULOSE WHISKERSHajji P; Cavaille J Y; Favier V; Gauthier C; Vigier G

GEMPPM; Grenoble,Joseph Fourier University

Composites comprising cellulose whiskers and styrene-

butyl acrylate copolymer initially prepared by a water

suspension-mixing procedure exhibited

thermomechanical behaviour which was enhanced by

increasing the filler content. Processing methods could

be classified in ascending order of their reinforcement

efficiency (extrusion, hot-pressing, evaporation)

associated with a gradual decrease of the model’s L/D

ratio, i.e. corresponding to a breakage and/or an

orientation effect of the whiskers. The short fibre

composite model of Halpin-Kardos perfectly fitted

experimental composite moduli measured below Tg,

whereas a significant reinforcing effect, indicating the

presence of a cellulose network linked by hydrogen bonds,

which could not be predicted by this model, was achieved

above Tg. The formation of such networks was possible

only above the whisker percolation threshold and the most

developed one occurred in 6 wt % E-systems, where the

apparent L/D ratio was the highest. 30 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.608128


17, No.4, Aug.1996, p.604-11

THERMOPLASTIC NANOCOMPOSITESFILLED WITH WHEAT STRAW CELLULOSEWHISKERS. I. PROCESSING ANDMECHANICAL BEHAVIOURHelbert W; Cavaille J Y; Dufresne A


Cellulose microcrystals with dimensions of about 5 nm

by 150-300 nm were obtained from wheat straw.

Composites with a weight fraction of cellulose ranging

from 0 to 30 wt % were processed by freeze-drying and

moulding a mixture of aqueous suspensions of

microcrystals and styrene-butyl acrylate copolymer latex.

It was found that these microcrystals, or whiskers, resulted

in a significant reinforcing effect at temps. higher than

the Tg of the matrix and improved the thermal stability

of the composite. The relaxed modulus increased

continuously with the filler content and, for a film

containing 30 wt % whiskers, it was more than a thousand

times higher than that of the matrix. This effect was

examined with regard to theoretical calculations based

on a mean field approach. It was concluded that the

significant reinforcement observed was due not only to

geometry and stiffness of the straw cellulose whiskers

but also to the interactions of the microcrystals, their

topological arrangement and the probable formation of

whisker clusters within the thermoplastic matrix, the

cellulose fillers probably being linked through hydrogen

bonds. 43 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.608127




Indianapolis, 5th-10th May 1996, p.1900-7. 012

PRODUCTION OF MICROCELLULAR FOAMEDPVC/WOOD-FIBRE COMPOSITES:PROCESSING AND CELL MORPHOLOGYRELATIONSHIPMalanda L M; Park C B; Balatinecz J J

Toronto,University

(SPE)

A microcellular polymer is a foamed plastic characterised

by a cell and a fully grown cell size in the range of 0.1 to

10 micron. The plastic/wood fibre composites utilise wood

fibres as a reinforcing filler in the polymer matrix and

are known to be advantageous over the neat polymers in

terms of the materials cost and some mechanical

properties such as stiffness and strength. These wood fibre

composites are microcellular processed to create a new

class of materials with unique properties. Recent studies

have demonstrated the feasibility of developing

microcellular structures in PVC/wood fibre composites.

In this research, the effects of the materials and the

processing conditions on the cell morphology of foamed

PVC/wood-fibre composites are studied with a view to

establishing the process-structure relationships for these

materials. Each step of microcellular PVC/wood fibre

composites processing is addressed including: the surface

treatment of the wood fibre; the mixing of polymer and

wood fibre; the manufacture of the composites; the

saturation of the composites with gas; the microcellular

foaming of the composites; and the cell morphology

characterisation of foamed composites. The experimental

results indicate that the cellular morphologies of the

foamed PVC/wood fibre composites are a strong function

of the content of plasticiser and the surface treatment of

wood-fibre as well as the gas saturation and foaming

conditions. 38 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.607202


5, No.3, 1996, p.81-5

NATURAL FIBRE MAT-REINFORCEDTHERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITES BASED ONFLAX FIBRES AND POLYPROPYLENEHeijenrath R; Peijs T

Eindhoven,University of Technology

Natural fibre mat-reinforced thermoplastics based on flax

fibres and a PP matrix were manufactured using a film-

stacking method. The influence of fibre content on

stiffness and strength was investigated and the results

compared with data for glass mat-reinforced

thermoplastics, including the influence of improved fibre/

matrix adhesion as a result of the use of maleic anhydride-

grafted PP. In addition, unidirectional and random flax

mat composites based on epoxy resin were manufactured

as reference materials. The results obtained indicated that

natural fibre mat-reinforced thermoplastics could be used

for low cost engineering materials, especially when a high

stiffness per unit weight was desirable. 12 refs.



Accession no.595393


60, No.6, 9th May 1996, p.919-22

X-RAY LINE PROFILE ANALYSIS IN ALKALI-TREATED RAMIE FIBRESao K P; Samantaray B K; Bhattacherjee S

Indian Institute of Technology

A systematic study is reported of lateral crystallite size

and paracrystalline distortion parameter in ramie fibres

treated with various concentrations of alkali at room

temperature and at 0C respectively. The conversion

mechanism from cellulose I to cellulose II lattice in the

light of changes in both size and distortion of the

crystallites is also discussed. 22 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.588297

Item 438Acta Polymerica

47, No.4, April 1996, p.177-80

GRAFT COPOLYMERISATION ONTO WOODFIBRES. OZONE-ACTIVATEDHYDROPHOBISATION OF PRETREATEDWOOD PULPDaneault C; Sain M M; Lavoie C

Quebec,University

The effect of various pretreatments on grafting efficiency

was investigated. Grafting of thermomechanical pulp was

feasible under all the pretreatment conditions studied.

Exposure of thermomechanical pulp to ozone followed

by grafting by the xanthation method further degraded

the cellulose and decreased graft yield. Graft yield could

be improved by introducing chemical crosslinks to the

cellulose backbone before or after ozone exposure. 6 refs.

CANADA

Accession no.588231


Vol.236, March 1996, p.129-38

German

EFFECT OF COUPLING AGENTS ON THEMOISTURE ABSORPTION OF NATURALFIBRE-REINFORCED PLASTICSBledzki A K; Gassan J

Institut fuer Werkstofftechnik

Details are given of improvements in mechanical

properties of jute fibre-reinforced epoxy resins by using



a silane coupling agent and an optimal predrying

technique. The influence of moisture on composite

properties is discussed. 11 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.587669

Item 440Antec ’95. Vol.II. Conference Proceedings.

Boston, Ma., 7th-11th May 1995, p.2086-90. 012

COMPOSITES FROM JUTE- AND KENAF-REINFORCED POLYPROPYLENESchneider J P; Karmaker A C

US,Dept.of Agriculture,Forest Products Laboratory;

Connecticut,University

(SPE)

Composites were prepared from PP and chopped jute and

kenaf fibres by melt mixing in a thermokinetic mixer,

and the mechanical properties of injection moulded

specimens were determined. Designed experiments were

used to investigate the effects of fibre type and content,

maleated PP coupling agent and melt flow index of PP

on the mechanical properties. 20 refs.

USA

Accession no.571285


Vol.233, Nov.1995, p.149-66

STEAM-EXPLODED WHEAT STRAW FIBRESAS REINFORCING MATERIAL FORPOLYPROPYLENE-BASED MATERIALS:CHARACTERISATION AND PROPERTIESAvella M; Bozzi C; dell’Erba R; Focher B; Marzetti A;

Martuscelli E

Istituto di Ricerca e Tecnologia delle Materie Plastiche;

Consorzio sulle Applicazioni dei Materiali Plastici e

Corrosione; Stazione Sperimentale per la Cellulosa

Composites of wheat straw fibres with PP and maleic

anhydride modified PP were prepared. Before mixing

with PP matrices the wheat straw fibres were subjected

to a steam explosion process that induces morphological

and structural changes in lignocellulosic materials. Such

changes are able to enhance the interactions with the

thermoplastic matrix. Thermal, mechanical and

morphological behaviour of the two series of composites

was investigated and compared; the resulting interfacial

adhesion was examined by SEM and infra-red FTIR

spectroscopy. Resistance to water of the composites was

also tested by swelling measurements to assess the

strength of the interphase between the PP and the

exploded straw fibres. 18 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.569358


58, No.3, 17th Oct.1995, p.597-612

SHORT SISAL FIBRE-REINFORCED STYRENE-BUTADIENE RUBBER COMPOSITESKumar R P; Amma M L G; Thomas S

Mahatma Gandhi,University; Rubber Research Institute

of India

The effect of fibre length, fibre distribution, fibre

orientation, fibre concentration and bonding agent on

the physical and mechanical properties of short sisal

fibre-reinforced SBR composites was investigated.

Fibre length of 6mm was found to be optimum for the

best balance of properties. Composites containing

longitudinally oriented fibres showed superior

mechanical performance to those with transversely

oriented fibres. Fibre-matrix adhesion was analysed by

SEM and anisotropic swelling measurements. The

adhesion between fibre and rubber was enhanced by

use of resorcinol-hexamethylene tetramine bonding

system. 47 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.563392


34, No.5, 1995, p.729-92

STUDIES ON JUTE COMPOSITES - ALITERATURE REVIEWMohanty A K; Misra M

Ravenshaw College

A detailed review is given of jute composites, particularly

structure and chemical composition of jute fibres; jute

fibre reinforced thermosetting polymer composites; jute

fibre reinforced thermoplastic polymer composites; jute

fibre reinforced rubber composites; and cost aspects and

applications of jute products. 327 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.561490


57, No.7, 15th Aug.1995, p.843-54

SHORT PINEAPPLE-LEAF-FIBRE-REINFORCED LDPE COMPOSITESGeorge J; Bhagawan S S; Prabhakaran N; Thomas S


Centre

Short pineapple-leaf-fibre-reinforced LDPE composites

were prepared by melt mixing and solution mixing

methods. Tensile properties were compared. The influence

of fibre length, fibre loading and orientation on the

mechanical properties were also evaluated. 51 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.558784




1, No.2, June 1995, p.103-8

BIOFIBRES AS REINFORCING FILLERS INTHERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITESSchneider J P; Myers G E; Clemons C M; English B W

US,Dept.of Agriculture,Forest Service

A waste wood composite (mixture of plywood,

particleboard, and fibreboard), kenaf core, a waste jute-

polyester composite panel, and waste newspaper

biofibre materials were compared with wood flour for

their ability to act as reinforcing fillers in melt blended

composites with PP as the matrix polymer. The

composites were prepared either by extrusion or by

blending in a high intensity thermokinetic mixer (K-

mixer), and mechanical properties were determined on

injection moulded specimens. 11 refs.

USA

Accession no.558189

Item 446Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research

34, No.5, May 1995, p.1889-96

RENEWABLE AGRICULTURAL FIBRES ASREINFORCING FILLERS IN PLASTICS:MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF KENAFFIBRE-POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITESSanadi A R; Caulfield D F; Jacobson R E; Rowell R M

Wisconsin,University; US,Forest Products Laboratory

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) is a fast-growing annual

growth plant that is harvested for its bast fibres. These

fibres have excellent specific properties and have

potential to be outstanding fillers in plastics. The

fibres and PP were blended in a thermokinetic mixer

and then injection moulded, with the fibre weight

fractions varying to 60%. A maleated PP was used to

improve the interaction and adhesion between the

non-polar matrix and the polar lignocellulosic fibres.

Specific tensile and flexural moduli of a 50 wt% (39%

vol%) of kenaf-PP composite compare favourably

with a 40 wt% glass fibre-PP injection moulded

composite. 23 refs.

USA

Accession no.551540


14, No.7, 1st April 1995, p.508-10

BANANA FIBRE STRANDS REINFORCEDPOLYESTER COMPOSITESZhu W H; Tobias B C; Coutts R S P

Victoria,University of Technology; CSIRO

Fabrication techniques and the physical and mechanical

properties of banana fibre strand reinforced polyester

composites are reported. A composite with 30 wt%

fibre, had a flexural strength of 97 MPa, and modulus

of elasticity in bending of 6.5 GPa. Fracture toughness

of the composite was about 1.6 times greater than the

polyester matrix. 4 refs.

AUSTRALIA

Accession no.550168


Vol.225, Feb.1995, p.37-49

German

FIBRE-MATRIX ADHESION IN COMPOSITESOF A THERMOPLASTIC MATRIX AND FLAX.II. APPLICATION OF FUNCTIONALISEDPOLYPROPYLENEMieck K P; Nechwatal A; Knobelsdorf C


Forschung eV

The adhesion of flax fibres to a PP matrix in flax/PP

composites was improved by pretreatment of the fibre

with PPs grafted with maleic anhydride(MAH). Prior to

composite preparation, the flax fibres were loaded with

the coupling agent. Shear strength and tear strength were

improved by 100% and 25%, respectively. They depended

on degree of grafting and average molar mass of the PP-

MAH graft copolymers. Comparable results were

achieved by embedding untreated flax fibres in a PP

matrix modified with MAH. 18 refs.


WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.547367

Item 449Antec ’94. Conference Proceedings.

San Francisco, Ca., 1st-5th May 1994, Vol.II, p.1474-5.

012

STUDY OF THE PREFERENTIALCRYSTALLISATION OF POLYPROPYLENE ONTHE SURFACE OF WOOD FIBRESWang G; Harrison I R

Pennsylvania,State University

(SPE)

DSC and optical microscopy were used to study the

effectiveness of silane and acrylic polymer fibre surface

treatments in inducing the preferential crystallisation of

PP on the surface of wood fibres in PP/wood fibre

composites. It was shown that wood fibres, whether

treated or not, would nucleate crystallisation. However,

untreated fibres showed less tightly packed spherulites

compared with the treated fibres. Silane treated fibres

exhibited the most complete spherulite encapsulation and

more uniform spherulitic structure. 6 refs.

USA

Accession no.544339




23, No.5, May 1994, p.69

NATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCED COMPOSITESARE LIGHT AND STRONG

BASF has made available test quantities of mat reinforced

PP that contain sisal or flax instead of the usual glass

fibres, designated NMTs (Natural Fibre Reinforced

Thermoplastics). The company says that sisal fibres can

be produced at around 20% of the cost of glass fibres;

details of the typical properties of NMTs compared with

those of GRP are given.

BASF AGEUROPEAN COMMUNITY; GERMANY; WESTERN EUROPE

Accession no.512831


42,No.3,5th Feb.1991,p.609-20

NATURE OF ADHESION IN COMPOSITES OFMODIFIED CELLULOSE FIBRES ANDPOLYPROPYLENEFelix J M;Gatenholm P

CHALMERS UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

Surface studies of cellulose fibres treated with a maleic

anhydride-polypropylene copolymer were carried out in

order to investigate the nature of adhesion between

cellulose fibres and the copolymer. Techniques such as

ESCA and contact angle measurements were used to

determine the functioning of the coupling agent on the

molecular level and Fourier transform IR spectroscopy

was used to investigate the nature of adhesion. 22 refs.


Accession no.420094

Item 452Polymer Communications

27,No.5,May 1986,p.157-60

ADHESION OF SISAL FIBRE-POLYESTERSYSTEMChand N;Rohatgi P K

INDIAN REGIONAL RESEARCH LABORATORY

The effect of alkali (NaOH) treatment on the tensile

strength and adhesion of sisal fibres to polyester resin

was investigated. Adhesion was determined from pull-

out tests and SEM was employed to examine surface

topography of both the treated and untreated fibres. It

was found that treatment of the fibres with a 5% aqueous

solution of NaOh at room temp. resulted in fibres having

increased wettability. Treatment for 90h gave rise to

improved tensile strength and adhesion of the fibres to

the resin. 12 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.311129


18,No.5,May 1983,p.1443-54

ALKALI TREATMENT OF COIR FIBRES FORCOIR-POLYESTER COMPOSITESPrasad S V;Pavithran C;Rohatgi P K

Coir fibres extracted from coconut husk were subjected

to an alkali treatment with NaOH with a view to improving

their wettability with polyester resin. The effect of alkali

treatment on the microstructure, surface topography and

tensile strength of the fibres was investigated and fibre/

matrix interfacial strength was determined from fibre pull-

out tests. Flexural, impact and ultrasonic properties of

coir/polyester composites containing varying volume

fractions of untreated and alkali treated fibres were also

studied. 11 refs.

INDIA

Accession no.232496

Subject Index


Subject Index

AABACA FIBRE, 24 389ABRASION RESISTANCE, 174

175ABS, 12 109 115 146 157 176 201

309 322 408ABSORPTION, 204 269 344 357

363ACACIA, 1ACCELERATED AGEING, 166

304ACETYLATION, 1 37 47 217 263

350 422ACID RESISTANCE, 55 99ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES, 31 203

312 322 366ACRYLATION, 209 217ACRYLONITRILE

COPOLYMER, 38 47 100 217285 296 348

ACTIVATION ENERGY, 48 69 80281 326 327 382

ACYLATION, 101ADDITIVE, 16 18 44 52 56 59 83

98 105 115 122 136 137 138140 146 147 149 160 161 162163 174 189 225 226 234 242246 264 270 280 297 300 332343 356 370 371 374 384 401404 425 426 427 434 440 449

ADHESION, 4 5 14 38 44 59 64 6776 83 87 100 103 104 114 170194 213 214 216 252 266 272278 313 316 320 321 356 361362 379 391 392 400 410 417421 426 439 446 448 451 452453

ADHESION PROMOTER, 94 183212

ADHESION PROMOTION, 34206 311 359 395 426 429

ADHESIVE, 191 203 308 317ADSORPTION, 267 354AEROPLANE, 45 52 57 175 431AEROSPACE APPLICATION, 31

52 175 186AGAVE FIBRE, 25 402AGAVE FOURCROYDES, 399AGEING, 94 104 107 116 276 299

304 312 392 397AGRICULTURAL

APPLICATION, 117AGRICULTURAL WASTE, 280

399 402

ALGAE, 353ALKALI, 5 13 37 54 72 100 170

216 349 350 370 422 452 453ALKALI TREATMENT, 26 43 89

339 359 437ALKALINE DEGRADATION, 43ALOE FIBRE, 116ANALYSIS, 5 8 10 11 28 37 38 54

60 63 82 83 85 88 100 105 114128 170 194 198 205 207 212214 217 241 269 314 334 343351 352 356 365 389 405 406409 425 426 429 440 441 449452

APPEARANCE, 36 115 137 201APPLICATION, 7 15 16 18 29 31 33

36 45 49 52 53 56 57 59 83 93 94102 103 108 109 110 111 115 116117 118 126 127 137 138 139143 144 146 155 156 157 164175 176 180 183 186 190 196201 202 203 209 210 236 246247 248 256 257 259 262 265266 272 283 293 308 309 317318 322 335 347 358 360 362363 366 375 376 380 381 385392 408 411 414 431 443

AQUEOUS, 277 348 415 434AQUEOUS SOLUTION, 43 285

426 452ARAMID FIBRE, 8 94 103 271

272 429ASPECT RATIO, 54 67 172 193

350 426ASPEN FIBRE, 166 398ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY,

106 194 314ATTENUATED TOTAL

REFLECTANCESPECTROSCOPY, 10 91

AUTOCLAVE MOULDING, 57AUTOMATION, 57 333AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATION, 16

29 31 36 45 49 53 56 57 83 108109 110 111 117 118 126 127 143144 155 156 164 175 183 186202 203 210 247 248 256 257259 265 266 283 308 309 322335 362 363 375 376 380 381385 408 411 414 431 450

BBACK INJECTION MOULDING,

109

BAGASSE, 119 140 254 280BALSA, 59BAMBOO, 50 62 73 358 391BAMBOO FIBRE-REINFORCED

PLASTIC, 99 358 391BANANA FIBRE, 5 388 399 402

447BASTING, 192BENDING, 78 92 165 249 252 260

286 296 417 447BENDING STRENGTH, 121 292

406BINDER, 18 101 146 164 292BIOCOMPOSITE, 13 15 36 47 64

65 89 108 127 206 266 335 353BIODEGRADABILITY, 26 36 90

223 291BIODETERIORATION, 24 26 30

36 40 47 52 78 89 90 94 96 103105 106 108 110 123 135 141146 176 206 208 223 254 261263 286 291 296 298 304 321329 346 352 353 363 364 365383 401 407 431

BIOMATERIAL, 36 298 335 445BIOPOLYMER, 76 108 127 180

234 286 438BLEACHING, 38 47 88 89 170

321BLEND, 95 99 120 161 163 183

201 203 218 266 293 335 356378 385 386 404 425 426 446

BLENDING, 61 67 93 125 425BLOWING AGENT, 115 133 136

153 157 176 246 343 416BOARD, 196 406BOAT, 175BODY PANEL, 31 57 381BOILING WATER, 166BOND STRENGTH, 429 453BONDING, 23 27 203 252 308 363

386 426 440BONDING AGENT, 44 62 73 168

287 442BREAKAGE, 54 425 430BREAKING STRENGTH, 16 391BREAKING STRESS, 158 178

198BRITTLE FAILURE, 425BRITTLENESS, 183 362BUILDING APPLICATION, 16 18

33 45 52 53 59 93 102 110 115117 137 138 146 157 176 190196 201 236 246 262 293 317318 347 358 360

Subject Index


BUILDING PANEL, 124BULK MOULDING

COMPOUND, 94 117 303 335BUS, 31BUTADIENE-STYRENE

COPOLYMER, 116 168 287392 442

BUTYL ACRYLATECOPOLYMER, 424 428 433434

CCABLE, 123CALENDERING, 353CAR TYRE, 112 122CARBON DIOXIDE, 94 97 134

160 202 423CARBON FIBRE, 52CARBON FIBRE-REINFORCED

PLASTIC, 45 57 145 180CARPET, 116CASEIN POLYMER, 208CASHEW NUTSHELL LIQUID,

406CAST, 180 329CASTING, 45 172 424CAUSTIC SODA, 5 26 43 114 121

216 221 251 321 349 370 395405 415 430

CELLULAR MATERIAL, 52 7181 115 133 134 137 138 153157 160 164 179 203 204 228246 305 308 328 331 343 373380 394 414 416 423

CELLULOSE, 29 32 41 51 69 8290 91 94 101 103 116 121 123129 131 165 172 175 223 241252 254 255 282 298 319 329352 356 386 392 394 401 408413 424 426 430 437 438

CELLULOSE ACETATE, 95 105197

CELLULOSE ACETATEBUTYRATE, 350

CELLULOSE ESTER, 350CELLULOSE FIBRE, 29 32 51 90

94 123 129 131 252 255 319329 352 356 392 394 401 424426 430 432 433 434 451

CELLULOSE XANTHATE, 438CELLULOSIC, 68 392CENTRIFUGAL CAST, 180CENTRIFUGATION, 45 57CHAIR, 227CHARACTERISATION, 1 5 39 43

75 88 105 106 130 141 144 165194 199 200 206 207 250 261

392 395 414 441CHARPY, 2 82 130 356 391CHEMICAL BONDING, 283 292

398 438CHEMICAL COMPOSITION, 272

443CHEMICAL MODIFICATION, 1

10 13 24 35 37 38 39 43 47 5175 83 87 89 100 101 131 157165 185 198 209 215 217 251263 270 272 282 285 288 294296 307 350 356 378 384 392395 402 404 406 413 420 422425 426 429 438 443

CHEMICAL PROPERTIES, 99251 378 422

CHEMICAL RESISTANCE, 55 99251 422

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE, 26 3041 272 398 419 426 430

CHEMICAL TREATMENT, 83430

CHLORINATEDPOLYETHYLENE, 200 273

CHLOROSULFONATION, 429CHOPPED FIBRE, 140 183 254

440CHOPPED STRAND, 13 164 411CHROMATOGRAPHY, 76 141

243 279CLADDING, 127 146 191 262CLEAN ROOM, 109CO-ROTATING, 149 355CO-ROTATING EXTRUDER, 152

246 360COATED FIBRE, 449COATING, 172 210 217 247 284

331 417COCONUT FIBRE, 115 202 227

263 325 414COCONUT SHELL, 453COIR, 198 453COIR FIBRE-REINFORCED

PLASTIC, 89 170 453COLOUR, 93 184 347COMMERCIAL INFORMATION,

93 96 109 117 186 408COMMERCIALISATION, 59 93COMPATIBILISER, 2 4 15 26 27

34 35 44 70 114 120 123 141149 150 151 163 166 185 199218 233 246 288 297 307 332371 372 391 392 396 400 404426

COMPATIBILITY, 19 39 41 47 5975 119 120 157 161 172 185206 252 324 384 426

COMPOSITION, 2 26 50 133 134

150 151 153 159 199 200 207253 317 318 366

COMPOSTING, 110 127COMPOUNDING, 27 32 49 51 56

67 83 95 102 125 145 149 151152 153 189 262 293 300 325335 350 361 362 372 418 425426 432 440

COMPRESSION, 63 156 165 270384

COMPRESSION MOULDING, 3145 49 52 78 85 117 142 145 147164 167 186 187 203 247 266312 335 353 357 362 380 411414 431 432

COMPRESSION PROPERTIES, 646 71 216 228 367

COMPRESSION SET, 162COMPRESSION STRENGTH, 71

216COMPUTER SIMULATION, 347

365CONCRETE, 116 175CONSUMPTION, 45 52 57 111

190 246CONTINUOUS EXTRUSION, 109

136 366CONTINUOUS MOULDING, 56COOLING, 35 61 115 125 146 175

201 271 315COOLING RATE, 22 188 441COPOLYESTER, 346CORE, 52 115 175 333 358 411

445CORN FIBRE, 93CORN STARCH, 97CORONA DISCHARGE, 260CORROSION RESISTANCE, 52

175CORRUGATED, 14COST, 52 56 57 64 83 90 109 115

117 118 137 147 155 156 157180 181 202 203 209 234 246272 316 322 335 358 363 366383 408 411 414 443 450

COTTON, 63 115 186 202 231 248COUNTER-ROTATING

EXTRUDER, 246 360COUPLING AGENT, 2 15 16 18

21 37 40 50 65 70 74 78 83 9294 98 114 115 123 131 153 154163 174 194 213 239 246 249252 253 263 264 267 268 278283 292 332 338 356 359 361362 372 374 378 379 410 417426 439 440 448 449 451

CRACKING, 11 14 147 175 178210 340 425 440

Subject Index


CREEP, 48 150 205 326 338 389390

CREEP RESISTANCE, 115 150CROSSLINKING, 39 44 120 132

209 261 419 430CRYSTALLINITY, 27 40 43 67 72

83 105 148 150 188 271 311356 370 440 441 449

CRYSTALLISATION, 11 35 40105 188 271 281 315 352 449

CURAUA, 414CURE TIME, 50 73 87 264CURING, 44 50 73 85 87 94 158

174 251 264 316 374 419 427CURING AGENT, 25 120CYANOETHYLATION, 37 38 47

89 100 198 282CYCLE TIME, 109 159 247

DDAMAGE, 77 147 175 178 340

353DAMPING, 2 45 57 213 305 349DASHBOARD, 155 204DEBONDING, 340DECK, 191 196 246 293DECKING, 18 59 93 115DEFENCE APPLICATION, 52DEFORMATION, 140 235 254 287

425DEGRADABLE, 26 40 47 52 78

89 103 105 108 110 123 135146 176 206 208 254 261 291298 321 329 346 353 363 364365 383 401 407 427 431

DEGRADATION, 43 47 89 94 104106 107 116 157 166 171 184193 261 263 272 276 290 291299 304 321 351 353 392 397

DEGRADATION RATE, 184 291DELIGNIFICATION, 127DEMAND, 45 53 57 180 191 196

362DENSITY, 29 31 32 39 56 57 58

71 81 83 94 103 115 117 118127 128 133 134 136 137 144147 173 177 180 191 204 256303 312 320 335 356 363 381398 423

DESIGN, 12 14 18 93 115 118 201347 354

DIE, 115 125 146 176 191 201 246386

DIE DESIGN, 347DIFFERENTIAL THERMAL

ANALYSIS, 4 11 27 35 40 4367 70 75 85 105 114 148 188

241 269 271 281 282 311 314343 352 406 419 449

DIMENSIONAL STABILITY, 1857 83 93 118 210 247 282 304344

DIRECT EXTRUSION, 246 366DISCOLOURATION, 115 304DOMESTIC EQUIPMENT, 31 111DOOR, 31 57 138 155 164 180 201

203 318 333DOOR FRAME, 360DOOR PANEL, 31 57 156 247 283

292 335 375 431DRYING, 59 103 146 153 177 201

246 257 293 317 331 418 439DUCTILITY, 70 356 426DURABILITY, 107 304DYNAMIC MECHANICAL

ANALYSIS, 37 40 60 80 82105 258 329 332 398

DYNAMIC MECHANICALPROPERTIES, 28 80 81 135172 241 255 270 277 371 428

DYNAMIC MECHANICALTHERMAL ANALYSIS, 28147 260 398 400

DYNAMIC MODULI, 213 278340

DYNAMIC PROPERTIES, 28 8081 135 172 241 255 270 277371 428

DYNAMIC VULCANISATION, 3132

EE-GLASS, 83E-MODULUS, 23 25 51 60 67 120

121 132 144 178 218 254 318326 327 340 362 383 395

ECOBALANCE, 156 272ECONOMIC INFORMATION, 18

45 52 53 57 97 111 116 117 157180 190 191 196 201 225 246265 347 362 366 408

ELASTIC MODULUS, 23 25 5160 67 120 121 132 144 178 212218 252 254 303 318 319 326327 340 353 355 356 361 362381 383 395

ELASTICITY, 51 62 94 116 283287 292 447

ELASTOMER, 3 39 44 50 55 6273 87 97 104 112 116 122 128132 161 162 163 168 174 198199 218 229 232 233 261 264281 287 302 307 333 358 374400 407 408 425 428 442 443

ELECTRICAL APPLICATION, 52183

ELECTRON MICROGRAPH, 1 225 26 194 430

ELECTRON MICROSCOPY, 4 5 823 24 37 38 40 43 54 58 67 7582 85 87 100 104 107 114 128130 131 141 165 170 173 182187 198 205 206 217 229 230254 274 282 286 287 299 311314 326 351 357 377 408 423

ELECTRONIC APPLICATION, 752 183

ELONGATION, 51 104 120 362369 373 381 383 417 427 440

ELONGATION AT BREAK, 25 4458 73 78 89 116 120 128 161162 163 200 217 234 239 301336 356 372 395 400 404 425426

ENCAPSULATION, 115 246 449ENERGY ABSORPTION, 45 57

63 83 299 312 396 446ENGINE, 31ENGINE COVER, 127 156 202ENGINEERING APPLICATION,

13 45 57 66 94 380 436ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT, 36

96 97ENVIRONMENTAL

PROTECTION, 15 36 203 210272 380

ENVIRONMENTALLYFRIENDLY, 16 47 53 89 94 96117 175 202 210 265 292 317322 335 346 411

EPOXIDISED SOYBEAN OIL, 68209

EPOXY RESIN, 25 37 60 63 64 6677 94 99 116 126 154 172 175216 245 255 260 295 305 306314 316 320 328 339 340 349383 392 429 436 439 443

EQUIPMENT, 115 202 248ESTERIFICATION, 35 39 101 251

270 288 402 413ETHYLENE COPOLYMER, 27

149 150 151 163 199 404ETHYLENE-PROPYLENE-

DIENE TERPOLYMER, 3 162185 404 408 425

ETHYLENE-VINYL ACETATECOPOLYMER, 119 140 254

EXTRUDATE, 54 61 274 287 430EXTRUDER, 12 42 56 59 95 102

109 115 125 145 146 149 151152 153 176 183 196 246 262293 347 355 360 372 377 418

Subject Index


EXTRUSION, 12 42 54 59 65 8393 109 115 117 133 136 146149 153 157 176 179 183 186187 189 190 191 196 201 206207 246 262 268 284 293 297300 303 317 318 343 358 360362 365 366 380 386 426 430431 433 445

EXTRUSION BLOWING, 153EXTRUSION COMPOUNDING,

83 109 145 151 152 153 377 426EXTRUSION COMPRESSION

MOULDING, 431EXTRUSION MIXING, 83 149

187 189 300 426

FFABRIC, 45 211 222 282 321 363FABRICATION, 47 63 89 96 447FAILURE, 1 37 58 63 77 82 84

327 350 377 381 425 429 440446

FALLING WEIGHT, 82FATIGUE, 44 45 72 178 213 264

278 410FEEDING, 31 59 61 146 176 201

293FENCING, 18FIBRE ALIGNMENT, 64FIBRE DIAMETER, 83FIBRE DISTRIBUTION, 25 72

326 442FIBRE LENGTH, 21 36 60 83 88

94 135 152 164 206 214 274301 326 342 385 387 397 426430 442

FIBRE MAT, 147 335 379FIBRE ORIENTATION, 36 45 57

63 83 98 168 231 301 327 342353 362 379 381 397 433 442

FIBRE TREATMENT, 15 36 40 6788 89 135 206 247 326 406 430

FIBRE VOLUME, 36 206FIBRE-REINFORCED RUBBER,

50 62 73 168 229 232FIBREBOARD, 110 354 398 445FIBROUS FILLER, 42 43 119 140

146 150 151 152 159 169 174184 198 200 250 253 280 332370 372 395 398 425 441 446447 449

FILAMENT WINDING, 45 52 5763

FILLER, 1 3 12 18 35 42 43 44 5261 68 71 74 75 79 87 90 91 105112 114 115 117 119 120 122 123128 136 137 138 140 146 147

149 150 151 152 153 157 159160 161 162 163 169 172 174176 179 182 184 189 191 195198 199 200 201 225 226 234235 241 242 244 250 253 254258 264 270 280 288 293 307330 332 345 355 366 370 372374 378 384 386 395 398 401404 409 425 428 434 445 449

FILLER CONTENT, 50 62 71 8790 102 146 157 162 163 270360 433 434

FILM, 109 141 172 203 204 275336 381 401 412 434 436 449

FIRE RESISTANCE, 261 266FLAKEBOARD, 354FLAME PROOFING, 33 191FLAME RESISTANCE, 222FLAME RETARDANCE, 33 191FLAMMABILITY, 33 110 167 222

246 312 431FLAX, 9 31 33 40 45 46 53 69 86

94 103 113 117 118 126 167169 175 186 192 202 209 248249 253 265 266 320 335 361379 380 408 414 419 436 448450

FLAX FIBRE-REINFORCEDPLASTIC, 9 21 22 31 33 40 4546 49 57 82 84 94 98 113 139142 147 167 177 183 188 194208 209 211 212 214 253 257278 283 295 313 334 339 341361 362 387 403

FLEECE, 380FLEXIBILITY, 71 172 175 419FLEXURAL MODULUS, 1 16 24

45 51 83 94 135 166 199 250303 325 334 356 371 390 398425 440 446

FLEXURAL STRENGTH, 1 16 1824 45 47 58 72 89 94 103 115135 138 144 150 158 159 166170 181 182 245 250 269 278291 303 340 356 362 363 396415 425 440 447

FLOOR, 124 176 284FOAM, 52 71 81 115 133 134 137

138 153 157 160 164 179 203204 228 305 308 328 331 343373 380 394 414 423 432 435

FOAMING AGENT, 115 133 136153 157 176 246 343 416

FOOTWEAR, 75FORMING, 144 175 385 409FOURIER TRANSFORM

INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY,1 4 5 10 43 70 78 154 184 198

251 267 285 286 326 413 415419 420 422 441

FRACTOGRAPHY, 182 426 441FRACTURE, 27 31 58 62 72 154

165 182 218 221 314 340 419425

FRACTURE MORPHOLOGY, 511 17 27 40 54 114 128 131 132136 147 179 188 205 211 258261 267 271 274 314 343 349370 372 373 392 393 400 404418 419 421

FRACTURE SURFACE, 37 73 128209 217 307 346 396 425 426429 430

FRACTURE TOUGHNESS, 2 130189 258 425 429 447

FRAGMENTATION, 22 48 188359

FUNCTIONALISATION, 49 114426 448

FUNCTIONALISED, 16 83FUNGAL RESISTANCE, 304FURNITURE, 124 176 222 227

246 254 333

GGLASS FIBRE, 24 31 52 116 272

299 335 356 366 379 414GLASS FIBRE-REINFORCED

PLASTIC, 20 31 32 45 57 5863 82 83 94 107 109 113 145147 164 170 171 175 180 182186 202 210 211 214 215 220248 265 271 289 300 303 305308 313 322 325 335 337 356363 366 375 380 381 403 411414 431 446

GLASS TRANSITIONTEMPERATURE, 66 68 80 8387 103 105 135 281 360 398419 428 433 434

GRAFT, 89 130 252 253 285 307311 443

GRAFT COPOLYMER, 2 150 151185 199 212 217 253 290 296356 410 426 436 448

GRAFT COPOLYMERISATION,38 100 106 170 285 290 348356 426 438

GRAFT POLYMERISATION, 4 47141 198

GRAFTING, 89 130 252 253 285307 311 356 392 443

GRAVIMETRIC ANALYSIS, 1023 35 165 269 282 285 286 314343

Subject Index


GROWTH RATE, 45 53 57 111180 191 196

HHAND LAY-UP, 38 45 52 57 383HARDNESS, 50 58 73 87 90 128

146 161 162 174 264 280 288297 306 367 399 402

HEAT AGEING, 104HEAT DEGRADATION, 27 29 35

55 66 67 69 105 149 152 167258 290 299 329 351 362 408

HEAT INSULATION, 110 117 224308 347

HEAT RESISTANCE, 10 31 55 6676 80 83 104 111 148 281 285290 312 350 356 361 431

HEAT TREATMENT, 37 88 121HEATING, 45 49 116 126 146 418HEMP, 26 31 43 45 53 57 68 86 94

111 117 118 175 186 202 203209 215 219 226 244 248 265266 283 303 309 311 320 335399 402 408 411 414 419

HENEQUEN FIBRE, 13 359HESSIAN, 427HIBISCUS CANNABINUS, 383HIGH DENSITY

POLYETHYLENE, 12 16 17 6770 76 93 115 149 150 151 153176 187 196 207 233 236 250258 324 352 359 366 377 386415

HOT PRESS MOULD, 415HOT PRESSING, 73 433HUMIDITY, 304 398HYBRID, 15 58 107 182 235 246

289 325 337 363 389HYBRID COMPOSITE, 13 20 82

157 170 171 183 276HYDROGEN BOND, 105 172 433

434HYDROGEN BONDING, 4 108

255HYDROLYSIS, 329 426HYDROPHILIC, 40 41 67 172 208

217 252 392HYDROPHOBIC, 40 67 172 217

252 270 422 438HYGROSCOPIC, 76HYGROTHERMAL AGEING, 173

IIMMERSION, 3 417 443IMPACT, 204 263IMPACT ENERGY, 83 178 425

426 440IMPACT MODIFIER, 130 134 160

183 200 273 360 404 425IMPACT RESISTANCE, 8 34 56

118 126 178 200 250 253 265283 292 335

IMPACT STRENGTH, 1 2 23 2657 64 65 70 78 81 82 83 85 94130 150 151 159 166 170 183185 187 189 199 200 203 214218 230 240 250 253 278 286288 299 303 312 319 356 362372 375 383 391 394 396 398400 404 423 425 426 440

IMPREGNATION, 13 15 45 57 65106 121 142 211 214 257 331359 406

IN-MOULD LAMINATING, 335IN-SITU POLYMERISATION, 75

369INFRARED SPECTRA, 1 24 30 41

75 91 148 217 285 311 395 413INITIATOR, 75 285 356 426INJECTION COMPRESSION

MOULDING, 49INJECTION MOULD, 440INJECTION MOULDED, 445 446INJECTION MOULDING, 11 21

27 31 45 65 83 86 95 98 103109 110 111 117 135 176 189197 233 265 266 297 303 312317 318 355 356 361 362 363365 396 408 411 418 423 425426

INJECTION MOULDINGMACHINE, 31 109 333

INJECTION PRESSURE, 425 440INSULATION, 31 110 117 123 224

308 322 347INTERFACE, 1 70 189 194 276

392 395INTERFACIAL ADHESION, 5 14

34 51 72 73 78 83 87 88 105106 147 148 168 177 188 208212 213 214 218 252 297 326340 346 350 354 356 387 391397 400 404 426 430 436 441442 448 452 453

INTERFACIAL BONDING, 23218 395 396 429 440

INTERFACIAL DEBONDING, 23INTERFACIAL INTERACTION,

23 35 37 70 105 430INTERFACIAL PROPERTIES, 4

22 23 27 35 37 41 47 70 77 105106 188 217 278 279 287 297321 384 430 439

INTERFACIAL SHEAR

STRENGTH, 14 21 359 387INTERFACIAL STRENGTH, 68

307INTERLAMINAR PROPERTIES,

9 177INTERLAMINAR SHEAR, 9 177

429INTERPHASE, 40 278 305 441INTERPHASE PROPERTIES, 35ISOCYANATE, 94 106 326 327IZOD, 83 130 189 398 425 426 440

JJOINT VENTURE, 93 109 117 186

201 322 335JUTE, 43 45 94 103 117 175 186

201 245 251 265 266 282 290291 299 311 321 340 349 364370 406 410 412 439 440 443445

JUTE FIBRE-REINFORCEDPLASTIC, 28 45 60 72 78 8892 144 148 213 221 231 245260 269 275 283 286 291 296304 305 306 321 328 336 338339 357 364 367 368 369 371381 396 406 410 412 415 427440 443

KKAPOK, 43 311KENAF, 13 53 59 104 115 117 186

203 229 244 265 266 283 335348 375 383

KUDZU FIBRE, 4

LLAMINATE, 121 194 326 327 341

358 381LAMINATING, 204 335LANGIVIN EQUATION, 1 11 25

41 44 58 63 77 132LATEX, 217 228 308 329 392 424

428 433 434LAY-UP, 45 57LEATHER FIBRE, 75LEGISLATION, 56 122 127 186

347LICENCE, 93 115 196 246LIFE CYCLE ANALYSIS, 36 143

309LIGHT DEGRADATION, 184 250LIGHTWEIGHT, 36 45 57 115 117

126 175 247 256 265 335 380LIGNIN, 29 68 94 101 105 116

Subject Index


121 131 141 148 261 443LIGNIN-FORMALDEHYDE

RESIN, 148LIGNOCELLULOSE, 83 103 165

208 332 353 356 372 426 441446

LIGNOCELLULOSECOPOLYMER, 47 285

LINEAR LOW DENSITYPOLYETHYLENE, 151 161418

LINING, 335 375 380LIRIODENDRON TULIPIFERA,

350LOADING, 1 63 340 372 425 430LONG FIBRE, 9 56 109 115 145

146 223LORRY, 31LOW DENSITY

POLYETHYLENE, 88 120 150220 382 393 395 400 415 430444

MMACHINERY, 12 31 42 45 56 57

59 61 95 115 145 146 149 155176 293 333 385 440

MAIZE, 146MALEATED, 15 16 26 83 130 150

151 185 294 396 400 413 417425 440 446

MALEATION, 13 51 185 356 404426

MALEIC ANHYDRIDE, 4 10 1623 35 41 51 54 68 70 83 115141 165 218 252 253 268 270280 288 307 310 324 338 344356 361 384 391 392 398 399402 403 413 426 436 441

MALEIC ANHYDRIDECOPOLYMER, 2 21 35 98 114130 166 177 189 199 212 213214 249 332 356 387 410 426436 448 451

MANUFACTURING, 52 93 96 117175

MARINE APPLICATION, 52 358MARKET, 18 45 52 53 57 97 115

118 157 196 201 265 347MAT, 118 203 322 375 436MATERIAL REPLACEMENT, 7

15 18 29 31 32 59 82 83 85 9497 108 115 122 128 137 138142 143 148 183 222 228 256257 258 264 308 309 316 318322 323 345 356 363 374 375380 381 391 411 414 431

MATERIALS SELECTION, 56 59113 139 175 203 248

MATRIX, 1 5 9 25 29 37 38 49 5268 100 116 120 165 168 170175 194 211 215 279 358 391392 417 426 430 441 443 445446 447 453

MATTING, 118 203 322 375MATTRESS, 222MELAMINE-FORMALDEHYDE

RESIN, 129 147 406MELT, 103 175 176 201 211 386MELT COMPOUNDING, 135 141

297MELT FLOW, 187 207 287MELT FLOW INDEX, 39 56 83

187 426 430 440 445MELT MIXING, 51 342MELT PROCESSING, 76 350 431

440MELT VISCOSITY, 16 45 54 274

287 430MELT VISCOSITY INDEX, 39 56

83 187 426 430MERCERISATION, 38 47 88 198

216 217 321 326METHYL METHACRYLATE

COPOLYMER, 38 198MICROSCOPY, 10 25 40 54 58

132 141 178 188 193 258 271274 287 307 340 398 425 430

MICROSTRUCTURE, 38 300 453MILLING, 174 195 418MINERAL FIBRE-REINFORCED

PLASTIC, 183MIXER, 61 103 162 418 440 445

446MIXING, 51 54 61 83 103 132 149

162 187 189 193 201 208 229233 300 342 371 393 417 418425 426 433 440 441 444

MODIFICATION, 1 24 35 39 4351 67 75 83 90 94 101 123 131157 165 194 215 251 270 272285 296 356 378 384 392 404406 413 420 422 425 426

MOISTURE ABSORPTION, 55 79116 138 166 169 173 210 272280 299 323 340 345 379 439

MOISTURE CONTENT, 45 79142 146 224 246 249 252 253282 293 317 318 378

MOISTURE DIFFUSION, 330MOISTURE REGAIN, 251 368

422MOISTURE REMOVAL, 146 246MOISTURE RESISTANCE, 18

146 157 191 323 344 345 392

449MOISTURE SENSITIVE, 36MOLECULAR STRUCTURE, 26

30 41 272 398 405 419 426 430443

MORPHOLOGY, 5 8 11 17 25 27 4043 54 70 83 114 128 131 132 136147 151 153 179 188 199 205211 217 238 258 261 267 271274 300 314 325 343 349 370372 373 392 393 400 404 416418 419 421 430 432 438 453

MOULDING, 3 25 31 45 52 56 5778 85 93 94 117 126 142 145147 158 159 164 167 180 186187 203 209 215 219 227 238247 257 266 312 322 335 341353 357 358 362 363 380 411414 434

MOULDING COMPOUND, 94117 129 142 257

MOULDING PRESSURE, 425 440

NNANOCOMPOSITE, 172 241 255

261 277 329 424 428 433 434NANOFILLER, 71 172NATURAL FIBRE-REINFORCED

RUBBER, 50 73 168 229 232442

NATURAL POLYMER, 7 146 222261

NATURAL RUBBER, 44 50 62 7387 104 132 161 163 174 261264 314 374 392

NEEDLE PUNCHING, 211 335379

NOISE INSULATION, 31NOISE REDUCTION, 112 122

308NON-WOVEN, 156 211 282 335

375 406NOTCHED IMPACT STRENGTH,

83 166 183 425 426 440NOVOLAC RESIN, 280 288 399NUCLEAR MAGNETIC

RESONANCE, 19 106 119 140242 243 415 419

NUCLEATION, 35 153 157 160271 281 315 352 449

NYLON, 45 109 175 180NYLON-6, 29

OOIL PALM, 20 217 281OIL PALM EMPTY FRUIT

Subject Index


BUNCH FIBRE, 131 263 372OIL PALM WOOD FLOUR, 44

264OPTICAL MICROSCOPY, 25 40

54 58 178 188 193 271 274 287430 449

OPTIMISATION, 14 177 270 342442

ORIENTATION, 98 214 284 296370 395 444

ORTHOPHTHALIC POLYESTERRESIN, 158

OXIDATIVE DEGRADATION,258

OXYGEN PLASMATREATMENT, 34

OZONE, 386 438

PPACKAGING, 175PALLET, 386PALM FIBRE, 158PANEL, 203 204 265 266 383 445PAPER, 90 117 123 148PARCEL SHELF, 155 292 363 375

411 431PARTICLE BOARD, 254 258 354

445PATENT, 93 115 308 335 347PHENOL-FORMALDEHYDE

RESIN, 20 58 73 148 171 217239 281 392 406

PHENOLIC RESIN, 85 121 148175 219 230 280 302 304 312320 406

PHLOEM, 94 446PHOTODEGRADATION, 258 427PHYSICAL PROPERTIES, 8 29

55 83 95 137 139 174 177 223260 304 346 382 395 412 442447

PHYSICOCHEMICALPROPERTIES, 422

PHYSICOMECHANICALPROPERTIES, 10 13 101 128229

PINE FLOUR, 398PINEAPPLE FIBRE, 346PINEAPPLE LEAF FIBRE, 47 100

285 382 393 395 397 421 422430 444

PIPE, 45 57 146 180 366PLASMA TREATMENT, 14 34

233PLASTICISER, 68 241 275 416

427 435PLYWOOD, 445

POLYACRYLONITRILE, 291 348POLYAMIDE, 45 109 175 180POLYAMIDE-6, 29 141POLYBUTYLENE, 39 55POLYBUTYLENE SUCCINATE,

26 103 135POLYCAPROLACTAM, 141POLYCAPROLACTONE, 48 103

206 353POLYCARBONATE, 99POLYEPOXIDE, 25 37 60 63 64

66 77 94 99 116 126 154 172175 216 245 255 260 295 305306 314 316 320 328 339 340349 383 392 429

POLYESTER FIBRE, 104POLYESTER RESIN, 5 38 100

158 170 178 263 299 445 452453

POLYESTERAMIDE, 89 298POLYETHER URETHANE, 71POLYETHYLENE, 12 16 17 18 51

67 70 74 76 88 90 93 102 115116 119 149 150 151 152 153159 161 176 187 191 196 200205 207 220 233 236 246 250254 258 273 293 303 323 324327 337 345 352 359 366 377378 382 386 392 393 395 400415 418 420 423 430 444

POLYETHYLENETEREPHTHALATE, 8 103 104183

POLYHYDROXYBUTYRATE, 24103 234

POLYISOBUTYLENE, 39 55POLYLACTIC ACID, 40POLYMERIC COMPATIBILISER,

150 151 185 396 426POLYMERIC COUPLING

AGENT, 83 213 249 356 426440 449

POLYMETHYLMETHACRYLATE, 75 89 94126 279 392

POLYPHENYLENE OXIDE, 66POLYPROPYLENE, 1 2 3 4 6 8 9

11 12 13 14 15 16 18 21 22 2327 29 32 33 34 35 36 39 40 4549 54 55 56 57 59 65 74 76 7779 82 83 84 88 92 94 98 102108 109 113 114 115 116 119126 130 131 132 139 144 146150 156 162 163 166 167 173176 177 179 180 183 185 186188 189 190 191 196 201 203204 211 212 213 214 218 236246 249 252 253 254 261 265

266 268 271 283 284 292 293294 297 300 303 305 307 313315 322 323 326 332 333 334335 338 342 345 352 356 357361 362 366 371 372 375 378379 380 381 387 390 391 392396 403 404 408 409 410 415417 425 426 431 436 440 441445 446 448 449 450 451

POLYSACCHARIDE, 103 243 261POLYSTYRENE, 12 26 56 80 146

165 176 199 201 205 274 279343 378 392 398 402 420

POLYURETHANE, 19 45 52 57 7181 111 118 124 126 155 156164 180 186 228 247 275 278284 308 331 335 336 376 380412 427 431

POLYURETHANE-ACRYLATE,275 412

POLYVINYL ACETATE, 320POLYVINYL ALCOHOL, 320POLYVINYL CHLORIDE, 12 42

76 90 93 115 116 123 133 134136 137 138 146 160 176 184190 191 196 200 201 203 246247 273 279 293 303 317 323345 347 360 366 373 378 394416 432 435

POLYVINYL CYANIDE, 291 348POLYVINYL ESTER, 28 68 72

221POLYVINYLBENZENE, 199 402POROSITY, 57 83 180 408PREPREG, 45 57 142 180PRETREATMENT, 37 54 257 320

332 349 406 438 452PRICE, 116 127 272 347 379 385PROCESSABILITY, 16 36 88 93

156 162 172 185 187 246 277356 440

PROCESSING, 8 13 16 18 21 2245 48 57 59 61 90 93 94 96 9798 116 117 136 139 147 149187 189 203 206 241 255 257277 297 320 326 342 353 372380 403 416 418 424 434

PRODUCTION COST, 157 272408 414

PROFILE, 42 59 94 115 146 176201 246 262 347 437

PROPYLENE COPOLYMER, 2 921 32 35 98 114 130 150 151163 166 177 189 212 213 214249 332 356 387 410 426 436448 451

PROTEIN, 208PULL-OUT, 14 72 359 396 425

Subject Index


426PULP, 117 438PULTRUSION, 32 45 52 57 94 113

139 289 316

QQUALITY, 53 94 117 335 362 431

RRAILING, 196RAILWAY APPLICATION, 31 57RAMIE, 94 117 405 407 414 431

437REACTION INJECTION

MOULDING, 94 380REACTIVE EXTRUSION, 141

297 426RECLAIM, 123 146 207 335 378RECYCLATE, 90 130 207 250 400RECYCLING, 18 36 45 53 56 57

83 93 94 116 123 126 127 130143 146 155 156 162 180 186202 207 210 236 250 259 265272 283 317 362 400 414

REINFORCED RUBBER, 62 7387 104 168 229 232 287 442443

RENEWABLE RESOURCE, 31 3256 68 94 96 97 116 123 155 186209 266 272 363 365 383 411414 431 446

RESIN IMPREGNATION, 45 121156 180

RESIN INJECTION, 57 180RESIN TRANSFER MOULDING,

25 45 57 94 180 209 215 219238 257 341 363 411

RESOL RESIN, 148 237REVIEW, 52 106 108 139 276 298

335 347 378 392 408 443 447RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES,

27 39 45 54 57 67 83 94 95 104116 162 172 206 207 229 274287 307 360 361 409 426 430440

RICE HUSK, 115 173 207 389RICE HUSK ASH, 3 128 161 162

163 174 374RIGID, 71 136 160 164 204 209

273 308RIGIDITY, 90 252 386ROTATIONAL MOULDING, 159RUBBER, 3 39 44 50 55 62 73 87

97 104 112 116 122 128 161162 163 168 174 198 218 229232 233 261 264 281 287 302

307 333 358 374 407 408 425428 442 443

RUBBER WOOD, 87

SSANDWICH STRUCTURE, 52

449SATURATED POLYESTER, 48

103 298 329 353 367SAWDUST, 130 280 418SCANNING ELECTRON

MICROSCOPY, 1 2 4 5 8 14 2324 25 26 27 37 38 40 43 46 4754 58 62 67 72 73 75 82 83 8587 95 100 104 106 107 114 128130 131 132 147 154 165 170173 179 182 187 188 193 194198 205 206 217 229 230 254267 282 286 299 304 307 311314 321 326 327 332 350 351357 368 372 377 382 391 393395 396 398 400 404 408 410419 421 423 425 426 429 430432 435 441 442 444 452 453

SCREW, 29 115 146 149 246SCREW DESIGN, 152SEAT, 228 375SELF-DRYING, 59 103 146 153

177 201 257 293 317 331SHEAR, 21 149 387 425 429SHEAR MODULUS, 81 255 277

371SHEAR PROPERTIES, 14 21 95

206 207 274 289 310 346 359367 381 387 430 448

SHEAR RATE, 16 54 274 287 430SHEAR STRESS, 206 274 430SHEET, 144 176 211 266 280SHEET MOULDING

COMPOUND, 88 94 117 142257 303 335 414

SHORE HARDNESS, 288 402SHORT FIBRE, 29 37 54 75 83

103 115 168 214 274 301 337342 361 371 379 380 397 430433 442

SHRINKAGE, 85 93 349 370SIDING, 138 196 293SILANE, 5 9 37 40 70 78 94 106

115 163 174 233 263 264 267307 327 340 374 378 395 417426 439 449

SILANISATION, 10 294 307SILICA, 3 44 97 128 264SILICON DIOXIDE, 3 44 97 128

264SILICONE RUBBER, 128

SINGLE-SCREW EXTRUDER,125 146 196 293 360 372 377

SISAL, 8 11 14 17 23 25 27 34 3738 41 43 45 47 48 54 57 80 83103 117 118 135 168 186 193197 202 206 216 218 220 232233 235 237 238 240 242 248267 271 274 276 289 301 311335 337 342 356 407 414 426442 450 452

SODIUM HYDROXIDE, 5 26 43114 121 216 221 251 321 349370 395 405 415 430 452 453

SOIL BURIAL, 263 427SOLVENT RESISTANCE, 99SORPTION, 9 20 39 67 107 160

177 357SOUND DAMPING, 111 335SOUND INSULATION, 31 322SOY POLYMER, 7 209 298SPECIFIC GRAVITY, 115 137 191

381SPORTS GOODS, 31 52 111SPRAY DRYING, 59 103 146 153

177 201 257 293 317 331SPRAYING, 61 308 331 414STABILISER, 115 184 191 195STABILITY, 10 55 66 76 80 83

104 148 281 285 290 350 356STARCH, 48 95 97 105 112 122

146 206 241 298 365 401 428STATISTICS, 45 52 53 57 111 116

117 180 190 191 196 201 225246 362 408

STEAM, 280 399 402STEAM EXPLODED, 332 441STEAM RESISTANCE, 399STIFFNESS, 15 25 29 57 59 83 94

98 115 116 126 127 147 150172 175 186 194 214 238 254292 295 312 320 335 341 362381 398 400 403 404 411 425436 440

STORAGE MODULUS, 23 28 80135 371

STRAIN, 130 147 171 390 397 425440

STRAW, 117 303STRENGTH, 25 32 53 56 68 72 77

101 121 157 166 183 252 307320 323 335 353 358 361 398406 408 414 422 425 426 436441 446

STRESS, 31 83 130 198 235 389390 417 440 441

STRESS RELAXATION, 83 171397

STRESS-STRAIN PROPERTIES,

Subject Index


21 22 161 162 163 217 326 327337 341 367 381 390 391 421426 440 446

STRESS TRANSFER, 22 88 177387 440

STYRENE ACRYLONITRILECOPOLYMER, 115

STYRENE COPOLYMER, 27 199404 424 428 433 434

STYRENE-ETHYLENEBUTYLENE-STYRENEBLOCK COPOLYMER, 151218 400

STYRENE-MALEICANHYDRIDE COPOLYMER,398

SUGAR CANE, 119 140 254SURFACE ENERGY, 279 332 354SURFACE FINISH, 43 45 83 90

104 146 360SURFACE MODIFICATION, 15

20 26 38 43 47 89 100 163 215245 286 291 359 395 426 430

SURFACE PROPERTIES, 17 3943 76 83 166 184 198 267 281297 354 421 438 451 452 453

SURFACE TREATMENT, 5 9 1013 14 15 17 20 24 26 31 37 3840 43 47 54 64 89 100 103 108111 114 116 135 146 154 163169 170 171 198 213 215 216217 233 234 239 245 252 260267 276 286 291 311 315 320321 338 340 349 359 372 373379 395 397 405 410 415 416417 420 426 429 430 432 435437 449 452 453

SUSTAINABILITY, 36 96SWELLING, 1 44 62 101 104 148

161 166 168 174 191 268 280290 324 339 406 441 442

SYNTHETIC WOOD, 18 31 59 93115 137 138 146 176 196 323347 360

TTANDEM EXTRUSION, 153TAPE WINDING, 45 52 57 63TEAR STRENGTH, 50 73 87 128

162 174 264 357 374 431 448TELECOMMUNICATIONS

APPLICATION, 52TELEPHONE, 358TENACITY, 275 339 369TENSILE MODULUS, 4 21 24 25

26 44 50 58 73 87 107 135 152161 163 166 200 208 217 234

239 250 264 269 301 313 325337 341 356 370 372 378 391423 425 428 440 446

TENSILE STRAIN, 144 440TENSILE STRENGTH, 2 4 11 16

18 23 24 25 26 44 50 57 58 6467 70 78 83 88 89 92 94 99 103104 107 116 120 128 135 141142 144 146 150 151 152 166170 181 182 185 200 206 208217 218 234 250 252 291 301319 321 326 327 336 339 355356 357 372 379 380 381 391406 423 425 440 445 452 453

TENSION, 98 350TEST, 8 9 10 11 13 30 32 33 37 38

54 58 60 75 79 82 83 99 100103 114 128 129 164 168 169170 171 197 208 209 211 212213 214 215 216 217 221 224227 249 251 258 260 268 271295 301 320 325 328 346 349356 367 368 373 382 391 393395 398 400 403 405 406 409410 417 418 419 420 421 425426 432 439 440 441 444 445447 449 452 453

TEST METHOD, 25 29 34 44 6771 88 94 118 123 125 178 194206 218 252 254 265 326 381414

TEST SPECIMEN, 3 63 445TESTING, 25 29 34 44 67 71 88

91 94 118 123 125 178 194 206218 252 254 265 326 381 414425 452 453

TEXTILE, 143 225TEXTURE, 93 104THERMAL DEGRADATION, 27

29 35 55 66 67 69 104 105 149152 167 258 290 299 329 351362 408

THERMAL EXPANSION, 31 4560 356

THERMAL EXPANSIONCOEFFICIENT, 60 191

THERMAL INSULATION, 110117 224 308 347

THERMAL PROPERTIES, 4 11 2023 27 28 29 31 40 45 59 60 8083 114 139 179 185 220 224260 271 281 296 302 315 351354 356 366 368 371 382 398401 419 440 441 449

THERMAL STABILITY, 10 31 5566 76 80 83 104 111 148 281 285290 312 350 356 361 431 434

THERMOGRAVIMETRICANALYSIS, 10 23 27 35 69 75

105 148 165 179 269 282 285286 314 343 356 406

THERMOPLASTICELASTOMER, 132 199 333400

THICKNESS, 115 148 166 204247 406

TOOLING, 115 201 203TORQUE, 11 23 62 162 264 350

417TOUGHNESS, 15 18 64 175 183

189 278 312 349 425 426TOYS, 31 176TRANSFER MOULDING, 25 45 57

94 180 209 215 219 238 257 341TRANSMISSION ELECTRON

MICROSCOPY, 4 5 8 23 24 3738 40 43 54 58 67 75 82 85 87100 104 107 114 128 130 131165 170 173 182 187 194 198205 206 217 229 230 254 282286 299 311 314 326 351 357377 408 423

TRANSPORT APPLICATION, 3152 157 180 248

TURBINE, 45 57TWIN-SCREW, 115 176 201TWIN-SCREW EXTRUDER, 102

109 125 146 149 151 152 183246 262 293 347 355 360 418

TYRE, 36 97 112 122 232

UULTRAVIOLET CURING, 369

427ULTRAVIOLET DEGRADATION,

104 184 250 304ULTRAVIOLET IRRADIATION,

166 184 250 258 260 275UNDER-THE-BONNET

APPLICATION, 31UNIDIRECTIONAL, 25 37 98 177

381 436UNSATURATED POLYESTER, 5

38 40 52 68 77 100 116 165 170178 181 194 215 231 263 269270 282 299 301 303 330 368384 388 389 392 411 419 421443 445 447 452 453

UPHOLSTERY, 222 431UREA-FORMALDEHYDE

RESIN, 227

VVACUUM FORMING, 144 175

409

Subject Index


VEHICLE BOOT, 292VEHICLE DOOR, 31 57 155 164

180VEHICLE GRILLE, 408VEHICLE INTERIOR, 110 127

156 204 283 292 335 380 414VEHICLE ROOF, 31VEHICLE SEAT, 228VEHICLE SHELL, 31 57 256 257VEHICLE TAILGATE, 109VEHICLE TRIM, 33 49 155 164

204 228 256 292 312 331 335375 376

VIBRATIONALSPECTROSCOPY, 24 30 41 7591 148 217 311 395 413

VINYL CYANIDE COPOLYMER,38 47 100 217 285 296 348

VINYL ESTER RESIN, 28 72 221VISCOELASTICITY, 48 409VISCOSITY, 45 57 67 83 94 95

116 172 206 207 287VOID CONTENT, 25 160 394VOLUME FRACTION, 20 36 38

54 57 58 100 140 168 171 173197 208 213 214 215 254 313320 337 383 388 440 453

VULCANISATION, 3 162VULCANISATION TIME, 50 73

87 264

WWAFER, 7WALL SLIP, 274WALL THICKNESS, 31 45 146WARPAGE, 375WASTE PAPER, 90 123 148 445WASTE WOOD, 191 445WATER, 3 20 166 340 343 350 433WATER ABSORPTION, 1 2 3 16

20 39 62 67 85 101 114 123 132147 148 150 163 170 209 241268 269 270 275 280 297 324

337 340 344 345 357 372 382398 399 402 406 412 415 431

WATER CONTENT, 252 317 318WATER PIPE, 45 57WATER RESISTANCE, 1 150 163

216 284 304 344 392 406 427441

WATER UPTAKE, 3WATER VAPOUR SORPTION,

354WEAR RESISTANCE, 174 175WEATHER RESISTANCE, 118

138 166 236 258 269 304 412427

WEIGHT REDUCTION, 36 45 5357 94 115 118 155 156 157 180203 248 252 256 266 283 292375 408 411 414

WET LAY-UP, 212WETTABILITY, 10 39 129 216

299 452 453WETTING, 16 40 94 165 372WHEAT STARCH, 365WHEAT STRAW, 124 280 424 434

441WHISKER, 172 241 329 424 433

434WHITE RICE HUSK ASH, 3 161

162 163WIND TURBINE, 45 57WINDING, 180WINDOW, 115 201 317 318WINDOW FRAME, 146 191 246

347WOOD, 18 29 31 36 55 59 74 76

93 115 137 138 146 175 176196 201 258 318 323 345 346347 354 360 378 385 400

WOOD COPOLYMER, 185 400WOOD FIBRE, 2 42 53 70 132

146 153 159 165 184 185 200205 208 294 317 318 345 385392 398 409 417 418 425 435438 445 449

WOOD FIBRE-REINFORCEDPLASTIC, 1 2 12 35 39 55 5966 67 70 101 102 107 111 115124 125 133 134 146 150 151152 153 157 159 184 185 187190 191 196 199 200 246 254262 273 279 280 284 293 323332 343 344 345 350 354 373390 392 398 399 402 409 413416 418 423 425 449

WOOD FINISH, 360WOOD FLAKE, 70 258WOOD FLOUR, 1 16 35 39 53 55

59 61 71 79 95 102 105 114 115117 120 123 130 134 136 137138 149 150 151 152 157 160165 179 189 195 199 235 250264 270 307 330 335 345 360366 384 398 400 404 445

WOOD POWDER, 250 307 345360

WOOD PULP, 208 391WOOD REPLACEMENT, 345 391WOOD TREATMENT, 121 400WOODGRAIN, 284

XX-RAY ANALYSIS, 106 194 437X-RAY SCATTERING, 27 35 43

75 148 154 188 289 311 405X-RAY SPECTROSCOPY, 106

429

YYIELD, 225 375 438YIELD STRENGTH, 383 391YIELD STRESS, 130YOUNG’S MODULUS, 23 25 51

60 67 120 121 132 144 178 212218 252 254 303 318 319 326327 340 353 355 356 361 362381 383 395 440 441

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