Processing and properties of continuous and aligned curaua fibers incorporated polyester composites

This paper presents systematic studies carried out on the processing and characterization of continuous and aligned curaua fibers-polyester composites. Laminates of these composites with (0 to 40 vol. %) curaua fibers were press-molded at room temperature, cured for 24 hours and tested for strength properties. Resulting fracture surfaces were analyzed by scanning electron microscope. Composites showed high flexural properties, which is attributed to a complex mechanism of individual interaction of the microfibrils with the matrix during crack initiation and further propagation through a model of stress concentration due to the specific fiber/matrix interface geometry. Impact test results showed a remarkable increase in the notch toughness with the amount of incorporated curaua fibers, which is attributed to the difficulty of breaking down the fibers and preferential de-bonding of the fiber/matrix interface, which in turn contributes to an elevated absorbed energy.