Biodegradation properties and thermogravimetric analysis of 3D braided flax PLA textile composites

Recent advances in the development and application of bio-based (natural fiber and biopolymer) composites are gaining broad attention because the resulting polymer completely degrades and does not release harmful substances. In this study, natural fiber 3 D braided yarn textile PLA (Polylactic acid) bio-composites are developed by film sequencing followed by hot-press compression molding. Bio-deterioration and thermal stability of the composites are analysed for storage, machining, transportation, and in-service uses in different environmental conditions (compost and thermal). Composite samples with different fiber wt.% (0, 22, 44) are exposed to compost soil. Tensile testing is performed under different configurations to characterise the tensile properties. Prepared bio-composite specimens are evaluated for weight loss and reduction in tensile properties over soil burial time, to observe the rate of biodegradation of braided yarn textile bio-composites. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is employed to analyse the biodegradability of the composites. To study the thermal stability of the prepared bio-composites thermogravimetric (TG) analysis is carried out. Results showed that biodegradability, tensile properties and thermal stability of the composites are enhanced significantly with the reinforcement of 3 D braided yarn fabric.

Automated summary

This study developed bio-composites of natural fiber 3D braided yarn textile PLA through film sequencing and hot-press compression molding, and analyzed their biodegradation, tensile properties, and thermal stability in different environmental conditions. The results showed significant improvement in biodegradability, tensile properties, and thermal stability of the composites with the reinforcement of 3D braided yarn fabric.