Process related mechanical properties of press molded natural fiber reinforced polymers

Within this work the dependence of the mechanical properties of natural fiber reinforced composites on the process pressure has been studied. This study includes not only the determination of the mechanical properties of the composites but also an extensive and detailed scanning electron microscopic (SEM) investigation of the fiber damage. The target of this study is the optimization of the complete manufacturing process. A new technology allowing pressing under vacuum conditions will also be tested within this work. Equipped with a vacuum chamber the press permits to achieve very short cycle times by processing. The aspiration connections of the vacuum chamber insure that the residual moisture and the condensation products of the matrix' chemical reaction could be directly evacuated. This type of press ensures also a very safe processing. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.