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 23 mm, and impact strength of 130 J/m. It can be concluded that toughness was influenced by fibre concentration, length and dispersion. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.