Green composites from a conjugated linseed oil-based resin and wheat straw

Green composites have been prepared using a free radically cured conjugated linseed oil-based resin reinforced with wheat straw. The effect of the amount of the wheat straw; the size of the wheat straw fiber; the matrix crosslink density; the incorporation of a compatibilizer, maleic anhydride; and the molding pressure on the structure, water absorption, and thermal and mechanical properties of the composites has been investigated. In general, increasing the amount of the wheat straw, the crosslink density of the matrix, and the molding pressure leads to improved thermal and mechanical properties. By using maleic anhydride as a compatibilizer, significant improvements in the mechanical properties can be achieved. Results from water uptake experiments indicate that the amount and fiber size of the wheat straw are the major factors influencing the absorption of water in the composite. The composites prepared are composed of 75–95 wt.% renewable materials and most have properties suitable for industrial applications.