Abstract:
Jute fiber as polymer reinforcement has gained its application about two decades ago.
X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transformation infrared studies was
conducted to elucidate surface chemical composition and functional groups of Bangla
White Grade B (BWB) jute fiber. Fiber treatment and its pros and cons are also
discussed with the assistance of crystallinity index studies. Analytical methodology was
discussed in detail about the jute BWB jute fiber diameter measurement and percentage
lumen exclusion prior to mechanical characterization. Study showed that the exclusion
of percentage lumen have the ability to eliminate much of the statistical error of single
jute fiber tensile test date. Thermal properties of BWB jute fiber was studied with
thermo gravimetry. Study showed that the thermal stability is restricted to 250°C for
during the TGA test. The processing dependency on mechanical properties of jute fiber
epoxy composite was analyzed in detail. Observation showed modification of
compression moulding enhanced the mechanical properties of jute epoxy composite
compared to the vacuum assisted resin infiltration and hand layup process. Wetability
aspect of jute fiber with epoxy resin was also analyzed with modified compression
moulding technique. Additionally, the thermal degradation behaviour was seen to
enhance in case of the jute epoxy composite compared to the matrix or jute fiber. The
improvement and degradation of longitudinal and transverse properties were analyzed
with dynamic mechanical analysis and X-ray micro computer tomography. Moisture
effect was also studied for some specific jute epoxy composites. Fracture surface of the
entire mechanically tested composite was conducted with scanning electron microscopy.
Impregnated resin inside jute fiber lumen was found due to vacuum applied to the jute
preform but did not precisely affected the composite mechanical properties. The effect
of fiber orientation on the mechanical properties of jute epoxy composites were studied
with angle ply laminate. Classical mechanical approach and fracture surface studies
were adopted to analyze the mechanical response of these laminates.
