High toughness hybrid biocomposite process optimization

The process optimization for production of a tough hybrid biocomposite through long fibre thermoplastic direct compounding and moulding process (LFT-D) was investigated with an ultimate goal of high impact strength. High shear mixing – twin screw extrusion – and low shear mixing – single screw extrusion – methods were used for the production of tough hybrid composites. The optimum operating condition was found to be the twin screw extrusion at which feeder to motor speed ratio was 1:10 without breaker and die while feeding the GF before the vent at 100 rpm. The hybrid composite produced accordingly had well dispersed fibres with GF content of 20 wt%, the average length of 2.3 mm, and impact strength of 130 J/m. It can be concluded that toughness was influenced by fibre concentration, length and dispersion.