CELL 170 |
| The development of truly green hybrid composites using soy protein, kenaf fibers and fibrillated bamboo is reported. Mechanical properties of these materials are superior to commercially available reinforced materials because of the formation of an interpenetrating network like structure. Soy protein based resin sheets were prepared using a casting method. Gellan was used as an additive to improve the tensile properties of the soy protein isolate. An alternating layered arrangement consisting of a kenaf mats and fibrillated bamboo dispersions was used as reinforcements. The addition of fibrillated bamboo fibers in the form of a watery slurry was shown to increase the impact strength of the resulting composite materials. These hybrid green composites offer a new avenue for load bearing applications of biodegradable and renewable materials. |
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Cellulose-Based and Other Green Composites
12:55 PM-3:45 PM, Monday, April 7, 2008 Morial Convention Center -- Rm. 232, Oral
Division of Cellulose & Renewable Materials |