Problems of formation of compositional materials reinforced with natural fibers

Purpose. To make a comparative characteristic of the consumer properties of composite materials with natural fibers obtained on the basis of thermosetting and thermoplastic resins. Methodology. Experimental studies of consumer properties of technical cellulose using standard methods and measuring instruments, namely in accordance with current standards: ISO 7213-81 “Cellulose. Sampling for testing. International Standard”, ISO 1762-74 Cellulose. Method for determining the ash content: International Standard”, ST CMEA 1491-79 Plastics. Charpy’s method of determination of impact strength: International standard», ISO 178: 2010. “Plastics. Static bending test method: International standard”. Results. The analysis of the properties of thermoplastic and thermosetting matrices allows us to conclude that for the manufacture of composite materials reinforced with natural fibers the most promising is the use of thermoplastic matrix. The use of thermoplastic matrices can be attributed to modern and most promising areas in our time because it is due to a number of their advantages over thermosetting. Composite materials based on thermoplastics have an unlimited shelf life, reduced several times the processing cycle. Due to the fact that this material is easily heated, the process of forming the part is less energy-intensive, especially in large-scale production. This simplifies the production of parts of complex configuration, increases the productivity of equipment, creating the conditions for its automation. At the same time full reproduction of the sizes is reached. Composites are non-toxic, do not emit solvents, explosionproof. Today, it is important that this material can be reused, and therefore there is a possibility of creating waste-free production. Scientific novelty. According to the analysis of literature sources and experimental studies, the advantages of using thermoplastic resins for the manufacture of composite materials with natural fibers which provide high consumption characteristics of composites with lower energy and material consumption. Practical significance. Replacement of thermosetting phenol-based formaldehyde resin with polyester-based thermoplastic resins is recommended for composite materials with natural fibers. For the use of phenol formaldehyde resins, special preparation of fillers is recommended, which will increase the adhesion and high consumption characteristics of the composite

fillers; flax fiber; hemp; polymer matrix; adhesion; wettability; strength; toughness