Process-controlled optimization of the tensile strength of bamboo fiber composites for structural applications

• Published in: Composites. Part B, Engineering Engineering, 2014-12, Vol.67, p.125-131
• Main Authors: Hebel, Dirk E., Javadian, Alireza, Heisel, Felix, Schlesier, Karsten, Griebel, Dragan, Wielopolski, Mateusz
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: A. Layered structures; A. Moulding compounds; Applied sciences; B. Fiber/matrix bond; Bamboo; Control systems; D. Electron microscopy; Deviation; Exact sciences and technology; Fiber composites; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Laminates; Optimization; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Presses; Technology of polymers; Tensile strength; Tuning
• ISSN: 1359-8368; 1879-1069
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesb.2014.06.032

A straightforward mechanical processing protocol for raw bamboo, which leads to a fibrous material with physical features that are mainly defined by the bamboo species, has been developed. This material was used as a natural fiber source for the production of a high-tensile fiber reinforced composite. Thereby, controlling the parameters of the underlying hot press fabrication process turned out to be crucial for a systematic tuning of the tensile capacities of the resulting composite materials. Hence, the relationship between tensile strength, pressure, temperature and press/hold time is being analyzed. It has been observed that the composites reach a maximum tensile strength (∼180MPa) at a certain pressure/temperature combination and any deviation from this range has a negative effect on the mechanical properties. The impact of the press/hold time, on the other hand, has been found to be rather small.