Experimental study on dielectric relaxation in alfa fiber reinforced epoxy composites

Abstract

Investigation on dielectric properties and behavior of thermoset epoxy composite based on cellulosic fibers has been carried on. Dielectric spectra were measured in the frequency range 0.1 Hz-100 kHz and at temperature intervals from ambient to 200°C. For the composite, four relaxations processes were identified, namely the orientation polarization imputed to the presence of polar water molecules in Alfa fiber, the a mode relaxation associated with the glass transition of the epoxy resin matrix, the relaxation process associated with conductivity occurring as a result the carriers charges diffusion noted for high temperature above glass transition and low frequencies, and interfacial or MaxwellWagner-Sillars relaxation that is attributable to the accumulation of charges at the Alfa fibers/epoxy resin interfaces. Dielectric relaxation analysis revealed evolution in water relaxation and it is thus concluded that the chemical treatment of the fiber can strongly influence the dielectrical properties and interfacial polarization processes in composites. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.