Physical, Chemical and Mechanical Properties of Hibiscus sabdariffa Fiber/Polymer Composite

Tensile, compressive, flexural and wear resistance properties of Hibiscus sabdariffa fiber-reinforced phenolic (Resorcinol Formaldehyde) resin matrix-based composites were evaluated to assess the possibility of using these fibers as a new eco-friendly material in engineering applications. Polymer composite samples were fabricated by a compression-molding technique developed in our laboratory. The effect of fiber dimension on mechanical properties was evaluated. The interfacial bonding between Hibiscus sabdariffa fiber and the polymer matrix has been found to affect the mechanical properties of the resorcinol formaldehyde resin matrix. It has been observed that particle-reinforced polymer composites exhibit better mechanical properties as compared to short and long fiber-reinforced polymeric composites. These composites were further subjected to an evaluation of morphological, thermal, physical (swelling and moisture absorption) and chemical properties.