Biological performance of novel hybrid green composites produced from glass fibers and jute fabric skin by the VARTM process

Abstract

Environmentally friendly composites are increasingly used in building applications that require fungal and insect resistance. This study evaluated the ability of both wood-degrading and mold fungi to decompose hybrid composites made of wood furnish, glass fibers, and jute fabric skin. Fungal decay resistance tests employed brown-rot fungus (Fomitopsis palustris) and white-rot fungus (Trametes versicolor). Mold resistance tests were performed with a mixture of three mold fungi, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Trichoderma viride. The test specimens were also bio-assayed against termites in both laboratory and field conditions. When compared to control composites specimens produced by conventional methods without glass fiber and jute, the specimens with/without glass fiber and jute fabric manufactured by the VARTM process showed high resistance against the wood-degrading fungi and termites under laboratory and field conditions; however, mold fungal growth was observed on the surfaces of the specimens with 10%, 15%, and 20% glass fiber (without jute fabric) and with 5%, 10%, and 15% glass fiber (with jute fabric). In geographical locations with severe decay and termite hazards, these composite products may have a long service life as alternatives to conventional composites.