Chemical Resistance, Mechanical and Physical Properties of Biofibers-Based Polymer Composites

A study on physical and chemical properties along with mechanical characterization of Hibiscus Sabdariffa fiber-reinforced Phenol-Formaldehyde resin matrix based polymer composites have been reported. Effect of fiber dimension on mechanical properties was evaluated. The interfacial bonding between Hibiscus Sabdariffa fiber and polymer matrix has been found to affect the properties of polymer 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 evaluation of morphological, thermal, physical (swelling and moisture absorption) and chemical properties.