Study of the mechanical and physical properties of bio-composite material based on wheat starch and wheat straw fibers

Abstract

Natural fiber reinforced bio-composites are taking a big role in various sections around the world such as industry, construction, and health section. In this study, a bio-composite material based on wheat starch matrix and natural wheat fibers is prepared. Five different specimens with following fiber contents 50,54.5,58.3,61.5, and 64.2% by weight are added to wheat starch matrix. Mechanical and physical tests are performed for different fiber weight contents. Charpy impact test results showed that impact energy is decreasing with increase in fiber content. Three-point deflection test data show that as higher fiber content as higher flexural stress is obtained. Shore D hardness test results show that the hardness values increase as fiber content increase. Water uptake test results showed that water absorption also decreases by increasing fiber content. An optical investigation is performed to calculate the average length and width of chopped fibers used as reinforcement. The average length and width of fibers were found to be 5.73mm and the average width is 0.38mm.