Polyester composites reinforced with maleic anhydride-treated filaments from mauve

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the polyester-based fiber composites reinforced with filaments/fibers of mauve treated with NaOH and maleic anhydride. The chemical treatment of the mauve filament/fibers (3 cm of length) was carried out, first with NaOH, followed by maleic anhydride. The resin used was ortho unsaturated polyester with addition of catalyst peroxide methyl ethyl ketone. The composites were prepared with 15% filaments (w/w) and tested for water absorption, three-point bending, tensile and impact strength. Fiberglass composites were produced using the same methodology for comparison purpose. The results demonstrate the potential use of mauve filaments. For some properties, the mauve composites showed better mechanical properties than fiberglass composites (three-point bending and tensile). The treatment of the filaments had varied effect and did not improve the mechanical properties. However, for the water absorption was observed a reduction of 35% in composites with treated mauve filaments.