Comparison between tensile behavior of epoxy and polyester matrix composites reinforced with eucalyptus fibers

Investigations and uses of composites reinforced with natural fibers have been growing over the last decades. These composites offer economical, technical, societal and environmental advantages. As a consequence, they became promising alternatives to replace synthetic fibers from non-renewable sources. In this way, the study of the properties of these natural composites is of utmost importance to enable its use. The present work compares the tensile mechanical behavior of polymeric composites reinforced with natural eucalyptus fibers. Two matrices widely applied in the industry were used: epoxy and polyester. The results showed that in both cases the introduction of eucalyptus fibers had minor effect on the matrix reinforcement.