Effects of the Fiber Diameter on Mechanic Properties in Polymethyl-Methacrylate Composites Reinforced with Goose Feather Fiber

Abstract

The polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA)-based composites were prepared using goose feather fibers at different diameters. The fibers, which were washed and dried, cut through the shaft, and their sizes were shrunk to short fiber form. Then the obtained short fibers were added into acryl matrix in portions of 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8% in volume. The mixture containing goose feather fiber was shaped via free casting method, and the goose feather fiber/PMMA composites were obtained. The samples, which were processed in accordance with the standards of test to be implemented after the thermal curing process, were characterized in terms of the mechanical properties after being evaluated by using three-point flexure test and impact test. For the goose feather-added composites, a significant increase was observed in rupture resistance, flexural strength, and flexure module. The flexure test curves of composites clearly revealed the slow and stable crack enlargement. Micro mechanisms of toughening and rupture processes were observed under the light of microstructure of rupture surfaces. The results of present study showed that the goose feather can be used as an important reinforcing material for bio-composites.