ANALISI SPERIMENTALE DEL COMPORTAMENTO MECCANICO DI BIO-COMPOSITI RINFORZATI CON FIBRE DI AGAVE

Abstract

This work deals with the study of the mechanical performance of bio-composites obtained by reinforcing both "green" thermoplastic and thermosetting matrices with natural fibers obtained by means of proper extraction processes, from two variety of agave (striata and americana) that grows in the Sicilianterritory. Through systematic experimental analyses, the mechanical performance of short fiber composites with thermoplastic matrix (PLA) obtained by hot molding, as well as composites with thermosetting matrix (tri-components "green" epoxy) obtained by hand lay-up, has been studied. Also, an innovative fiber extraction process having a zero environmental impact, have been proposed. Moreover, the effects of the eventual fiber treatments, as well as the recommendation to improve the performance of such composites are described.