Dynamical-mechanical and thermal analysis of polymeric composites reinforced with keratin biofibers from chicken feathers

Keratin fibers from chicken feathers were used as short-fiber reinforcement for a poly(methyl methacrylate) matrix. The composites were evaluated via thermal and dynamical-mechanical analysis. The thermal stability and transition temperature were found to be higher than standard PMMA. The storage modulus at room temperature increased with 1% and 2% weight of keratin biofibers and, at high temperature, the reinforcement provides higher stability, as reflected in the modulus behavior. Keratin fibers within the rigid polymer reduces tan delta peak, indication of a strong interface, as optical images confirm. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.