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Mechanical Characteristics and Terminological Behavior Study on Natural Fiber Nano reinforced Polymer Composite – A Review
Available online at www.sciencedirect.com
ScienceDirect Materials Today: Proceedings 16 (2019) 1287–1296
www.materialstoday.com/proceedings
ICAMMAS17
Mechanical Characteristics and Terminological Behavior Study on Natural Fiber Nano reinforced Polymer Composite – A Review Ramu P a *, Jaya Kumar CV b and Palanikumar K c a,c b
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Sai Ram Institute of Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu , India. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Sai Ram Engineering College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu , India.
Abstract
In recent years, natural fibers with nano polymer composites are useful in the field of research, Engineering and Science as well it is used as an alternative reinforcement for conventional composite. Natural fibers are not only strong and light weight, but also relatively cheap and have properties like high specific strength, low weight, nonabrasive, eco-friendly and biodegradable. Generally used natural fibers like Jute, Sisal, Banana, Hemp, etc…, The reuse of waste natural fiber reinforcement of polymer is a sustainable option for the environment. The polymeric matrix materials along with suitable and proper filler and better filler/matrix create strong interaction between advanced and new methods or approaches. This enable to develop polymeric composites which shows great prospective applications in the construction of buildings, automotive, aerospace and packaging industries. Nano polymer composite shows considerable applications in different fields because of larger surface area, and greater aspect ratio, with fascinating properties. Being environmentally friendly, applications of nano polymer composites offer new technology and business opportunities for several sectors, such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and biotechnology industries. Hybrid nano-polymer composites exploit the synergy between natural fibers in a nanoreinforced polymer-based composites. This leads to improve the properties along with the environmental appeal. The mechanical properties of a natural fiber reinforced nano polymer composite depend on parameters like fiber strength, fiber length, chemical treatment and orientation in addition to fiber-matrix interfacial bond strength. This review article aims at the clarification of the research and development in the improvement of mechanical properties of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites along with end applications. © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and/or Peer-review under responsibility of International Conference on Advances in Materials, Manufacturing and Applied Sciences. Keywords: Natural Fibers, nano fillers, natural fibers, polymers, nano composites and hybrid composites
1. Introduction Natural fibers with Nano reinforced composites have been proven as an alternative to synthetic fiber in transportation such as wind turbine blades, prosthetics, smart memory, ship structures, bridge construction, automobiles, railway coaches and aerospace. Other applications include military, building, packaging, consumer products and construction industries for ceiling paneling, partition boards. Vogelesang and Vlot [1] have reported that the natural fiber nano reinforced composite is widely increased in both industrial and domestic applications and also fundamental research. They are renewable, cheap, completely or partially recyclable, biodegradable and non hazardous material. *Corresponding author. Tel.: +0-99-4069-3877 ; fax: +0-442-251-2323 . E-mail address: [email protected] 2214-7853 © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and/or Peer-review under responsibility of International Conference on Advances in Materials, Manufacturing and Applied Sciences.
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Jawaid and Abdul [2] have studied that the natural fiber nano composites have low density and medium cost as well as satisfactory mechanical properties such as high specific strength, stiffness and the relatively good energy absorbing characteristics. This makes them as an attractive due to easy availability and renewability of raw materials. Synthetic fibers, such as carbon fibers and glass fibers, create severe ecological, and health hazard problems for the workers employed in manufacturing of their corresponding composites, when it is as compared to the composites derived from natural fibers Faruk et al [3] have studied the various types of natural fibers and they are divided into animal fibres and plant cellulose fibres. Plants that produce natural fibres are categorized into primary and secondary depending on the utilization. Primary plants are grown for their fibres while secondary plants are plants, where the fibres are extracted from the waste product. There are 6 major types of fibres namely; bast fibres, leaf fibres, fruit fibres, grass fibres, straw fibres and other types (wood and roots etc.). There are thousands of natural fibres available and therefore, there are many research interests in utilization of natural fibres to improve the properties of composites. Recycled cellulose fibres are obtained from cellulosic waste products such as paper, newspaper, cardboard and magazine. Fig.1. shows the classification of natural fibres.
Fig.1. Classification of natural and synthetic fibers [2]
Kalia et al [4] have investigated that natural fiber shows relatively poor bonding interactions, highly water absorbed and relatively less life time. The weaker interfacial or adhesion bonds between highly hydrophilic natural fibers and hydrophobic, non-polar organophilic polymer matrix, leads to considerable decrease in the properties of
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the composites and, thus, significantly obstructs their industrial utilization and production. However, several approaches and schemes have been established to supplement this deficiency in compatibility, including the introduction of coupling agents and/or various surface modification techniques. From past few years virtually, everything became “nano”, even materials, which have been around for more than a hundred years, like carbon black, which have been extensively used as the reinforcement or fillers in rubbers. Nano fillers belong to organic and inorganic in nature. The particles like silica (SiO2), titanium dioxide (TiO2), calcium carbonate (CaCO3), or polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS), etc., are inorganic filler. However, the filler, such as coir nanofiller, carbon black and cellulosic nanofiller, and many others are derived organically and naturally represent organic nanofillers. Hari et al [5] have reported that, the general idea of nanocomposites is based on the concept of creating a very large interface between the nanosized-building blocks and the polymer matrix. Very often, the homogeneous distribution of the nanosized particles is problematic. Denault and Labrecque [6] have defined that the Nanocomposites belong the groups called nanomaterials, where a nano-object (particle) is distributed into a matrix. Generally, nanocomposite is a multiphase dense material in which at least one of its phase has either one, two or three measurements lower than 100 μm. The nanocomposites exhibit unique characteristics and comparably better properties than conventional or traditional composites such as glass fiber reinforced composites. Nowadays, a great deal of research and study is in progress towards various fillers to form a huge variety of nanocomposites. The nanofiller in nanocomposite material are the main components and it is constituted of inorganic/inorganic, inorganic/organic, or organic/organic sources. Polymer nanocomposites are polymers (thermoplastics, thermosets, or elastomers) that have been reinforced with small quantities (less than 5% by weight) of nano-sized particles with high aspect ratios (L/h > 300). 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS An increased awareness that non-renewable resources have become scarce and our inevitable dependence on renewable resources has arisen. This century is called the cellulosic century, because more and more renewable plant resources for products are being discovered. It has generally been stated that the natural fibers are renewable and sustainable, but they are in fact, neither. The living plants are renewable and sustainable from which the natural fibers are taken, but not the fibers themselves. 2.1. Fiber source The plants, which produce natural fibers, are classified as primary and secondary depending on their utilization. Primary plants are those grown for their fiber content while secondary plants are plants in which the fibers are produced as a by-product. Jute, hemp, kenaf, and sisal are examples of primary plants. Pineapple, oil palm and coir are examples of secondary plants. There are six basic types of natural fibers. They are classified as follows: best fibers (jute, flax, hemp, ramie and kenaf), leaf fibers (abaca, sisal and pineapple), seed fibers (coir, cotton and kapok), core fibers (kenaf, hemp and jute), grass and reed fibers (wheat, corn and rice) and all other types (wood and roots). Few natural fibers listed and explained below [3]. 2.1.1. Flax Flax, Linum usitatissimum, belongs to the best fibers. It is grown in temperate regions and is one of the oldest fiber crops in the world. The bast fiber flax is most frequently used in the higher value-added textile markets. Nowadays, it is widely used in the composites area. 2.1.2. Hemp Another notable best fiber crop is hemp, which belongs to the Cannabis family. It is an annual plant that grows in temperate climates. Hemp is currently the subject of a European Union subsidy for non-food agriculture, and a considerable initiative in currently underway for their further development in Europe.
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2.1.3. Jute Jute is produced from plants of the genus Corchorus which includes about 100 species. It is one of the cheapest natural fibers and is currently the bast fiber with the highest production volume. Bangladesh, India and China provide the best condition for the growth of jute. Ray and co-workers [48–50] extensively investigated alkali treated jute fiber reinforced with vinyl ester resin. 2.1.4. Kenaf Kenaf belongs to the genus Hibiscus and there are about 300 species. Kenaf is a new crop in the United States and shows good potential as a raw material for usage in composite products. Latest advances in decortications equipment which separates the core from the bast fiber combined with fiber shortages, have renewed the interest in kenaf as a fiber source. 2.1.5. Sisal Sisal is an agave (Agave sisalana) and commercially produced in Brazil and East Africa. Between 1998–2000 and 2010, the global demand for sisal fiber and its products is expected to decline by an annual rate of 2.3% as agricultural twine. The traditional market for fibers continues to be eroded by synthetic substitutes and by the adoption of harvesting technologies that utilizes less or no twine. 2.1.6. Abaca The abaca/banana fiber, which comes from the banana plant, is durable and resistant to seawater. Abaca, the strongest of the commercially available cellulose fibers, is indigenous to the Philippines and is currently produced there and in Ecuador. It was once the preferred cordage fiber for marine applications. 2.2 Nano materials Nano particles, such as carbon nanotubes, nanoclays, and graphenes, are commonly used in the polymer nano composites to alter the chemical, mechanical, electrical, optical, and thermal properties. However, a number of vital issues need to be addressed before the full potential of polymer nanocomposites can actually be realized. The improvements in mechanical, thermal, electrical, and rheological properties of polymers by addition of nanoparticles depend upon a number of factors, such as processing technique, interfacial interaction between nanoparticles and host polymers, and state of nanoparticle dispersion. While a number of advances have recently been made in the area of polymer nanocomposites, the studies on understanding the effects of processing parameters on the structure, morphology, and functional properties of polymer nano composites are deficient. The relationship between the structural distributions and the ultimate properties of the polymer nanocomposites also need to be elucidated. There is a need for better characterization techniques to quantify the concentrations and distributions of nanoparticles as well as to assess the nature of the interface between the polymer and nanoparticles. Nanocomposites are composite materials in which the matrix material is reinforced by one or more separate nanomaterials in order to improve performance properties. The most common materials used as matrix in nanocomposites are polymers (e.g. epoxy, nylon, polyepoxide, polyetherimide), ceramics (e.g. alumina, glass, porcelain), and metals (e.g. iron, titanium, magnesium). Nanomaterials are generally considered as the materials that have a characteristic dimension (e.g. grain size, diameter of cylindrical cross-section, layer thickness) smaller than 100 nm. Nanomaterials can be metallic, polymeric, ceramic, electronic, or composite. Nanomaterials are classified into three categories depending on their geometry, as shown in Fig. 2.
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Fig.2. Various types of nanoscale materials [14]
Nanoparticles: When the three dimensions of particulates are in the order of nanometers, they are referred as equi-axed (isodimensional) nanoparticles or nanogranules or nanocrystals.
Nanotubes: When two dimensions are in the nanometer scale and the third is larger, forming an elongated structure, they are generally referred as ‘nanotubes’ or nanofibers/whiskers/nanorods.
Nanolayers: The particulates which are characterized by only one dimension in nanometer scale are nanolayers/nanoclays/nanosheets/nanoplatelets. These particulate is present in the form of sheets of one to a few nanometer thick to hundreds to thousands nanometers long
Njuguna et al [7] have researched on release of nano sized particles from nano composites and so far there is no standardized method established to simulate the release scenarios. Literature available, including the studies performed on nano composite, it can be said that most studies illustrated that nano-sized particles are released during some of the scenarios, but to a certain extent while laboratory experiments repeatability remains challenging. Kamel [8] has defined as nanometer scale items (10−9 m) the term nano is used. A nanometer is, therefore, equivalent to the billionth of a meter, or 80,000 times thinner than a human hair. The nano meter range, covers sizes smaller than the wavelength range of visible light but bigger than several atoms. Alexandre and Dubois [9] have listed and categorized nano materials into three groups; nano tubes, nano particles, and nano layers, depending on the number of measurements of the dispersed particles that are in the nanometer range 2.2.1 Nano Clay Nano clay fillers can be natural or synthetic clays, as well as phosphates of transition metals. The most widely used reinforcement is clay due to its natural abundance and its very high form factor. Clay-based nano composites generate an overall improvement in physical performances. The most widely used ones are the phyllosilicates (smectites). They have a shell-shaped crystalline structure with nano metric thickness. Clays are classified according to their crystalline structures and also to the quantity and position of the ions within the elementary mesh.
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2.2.2 Carbon Nano Tubes Carbon nanotubes (CNT) were discovered by [Oberlin et al. (1976), Endo et al. (1976)], without application, and then rediscovered by [Iijima (1991)]. The fibre could present a nanometric diameter and length of some orders of magnitude in comparison with its diameter. In general, three kinds of carbon nanotubes are considered (Fig.3)
Fig.3. Carbon nanotubes. a) Multi-Wall carbon nanotube (MWCNT). Idealized view; b) SEM image of nanotubes obtained by arc with 30 to 40 wt% catalytic residues (width of picture corresponds to 2 µm); c) TEM image showing the catalytic residues within nanotubes with 25 wt% catalyst residue. [10]
• Single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNT). They present a diameter between 1 and 2 nm; • Double-wall carbon nanotubes (DWCNT). Diameter is between 2 and 4 nm; • Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). They present a diameter between 4 and 150 nm These nanotubes present a theoretical range of properties incredible (Young’s modulus up to 1 TPa, heat conductivity of 3000 W.m−1 .K −1 , electric conductivity of 107 S.m−1 , etc.), but considering perfect nano tubes individually makes no sense. They nevertheless provide a wide range of new properties when used in nano composites, depending on their purity and dispersion in the matrix. 2.2.3 Synthetic nanoparticles Nanoparticles are not solely a product of modern technology, but are also created by natural processes such as volcano eruptions or forest fires. Naturally occurring nanoparticles also include ultrafine sand grains of mineral origin (e.g.oxides, carbonates). In addition to commercially produced nanoparticles, many are unintentionally created by the combustion of diesel fuel (ultrafine particles) or during barbecuing. Synthetic nanoparticles find use in many applications. This includes dispersions in gases (e.g. as aerosols), as ultrafine powder, for films, distributed in fluids (dispersed, for example ferrofluids) or embedded in a solid body (nanocomposites). The present dossier focuses on those nanoparticles present in a solid state 2.3 Matrixes for Polymer Composites Matrix materials or resins in case of polymer matrix composites can be classified according to their chemical base i.e. thermoplastic or thermosets. Thermoplastics have excellent toughness, resilience and corrosion resistance but have fundamental disadvantage compared to thermosetting resins, in that they have to be molded at elevated temperature. The main thermoplastic used in fiber reinforced plastics are unsaturated polyesters which have lower cost but are usually not as strong as thermoset plastics like epoxy resins. Hence the main research effort is concentrated on thermosetting plastics. Thermosetting plastics or thermosets are formed with a network molecular structure of primary covalent bonds. Some thermosets are cross-linked by heat or a combination of heat and pressure. Others may be cross-linked by chemical reaction, which occurs at room temperature. The effects of the incorporation of natural fibers in petrochemical based thermoplastics and thermoset matrixes were extensively studied. Polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and PVC (polyvinyl chloride) were used for the thermoplastic matrixes. Polyester, epoxy resin, phenol formaldehyde, and vinyl esters were used for the thermoset matrices and are reportedly the most widely used matrices for natural fiber reinforced polymer composites.
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2.3.1 Thermosetting matrix The main advantages of thermosetting polymer matrix materials are melted with low temperature melting point and also easily mixed with fibers prior to curing. The important limitation of thermosetting polymer matrix is irreversible. In general, Polyesters is highly usable thermosetting matrix FRP composites, because of handling flexibility, dimension wise stable, ease of handling, dimensional stability, excellent mechanical strength, electrical resistance, chemical properties and available at low cost. They are commonly applied in hand lay-up and spray-up processes. Types of thermosetting matrix are listed in the below Fig.4. 2.3.1.1 Epoxy Epoxy resins are the most commonly used thermoset plastic in polymer matrix composites. Epoxy resins are a family of thermoset plastic materials which do not give off reaction products when they cure and so have low cure shrinkage. They also have good adhesion to other materials, good chemical and environmental resistance, good chemical properties and good insulating properties. The epoxy resins are generally manufactured by reacting epichlorohydrin with bisphenol. Different resins are formed by varying proportions of the two: as the proportion of epichlorohydrin is reduced the molecular weight of the resin is increased. The excellent properties of epoxy (good adhesion, mechanical properties, low moisture content, little shrinkage, and processing ease) make it one of the best matrix materials for composites. 2.3.2 Thermoplastic matrix In recent trend the usage of thermoplastics matrix materials are widely increased than the thermoset matrix material, due to the faster processing and curing. On the other hand, thermoplastics do not undergo a chemical reaction on application of heat. They simply melt on application of heat and pressure to form a component. Thermoplastics are softened and they undergo large and rapid change in viscosity with variation in temperature. Thermoplastics are repeatedly softened by heating and hardened by cooling. Types of thermoplastic matrix are listed in the below Fig.5.
Fig. 4. Types of thermoset polymers [11]
Fig.5. Types of Thermoplastic polymers [11]
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The process is reversible by allowing a reasonable level of process waste and the recycled material is reused without significant effect on the end product. Polypropylene, Polycarbonate, Polystyrene, Nylon and Polyethylene are the most common thermoplastic matrix used in FRP/Composites. They have an excellent chemical resistance to acids and alkalis and have good resistance to organic solvents. Their relatively low melting points allow for rapid processing at lower cost. Nylon and Acetal are highly resistant to organic solvents and are also used in increased mechanical properties. 3. Mechanical properties The properties of natural fiber reinforced nano polymer composites differ among cited works, because different fibers were used, different moisture conditions were present, and different testing methods were employed. The natural fiber reinforced nano polymer composites performance depends on several factors, including fibers chemical composition, cell dimensions, microfibrillar angle, defects, structure, physical properties, and mechanical properties, and also the interaction of a fiber with the polymer. In order to expand the use of natural fibers for composites and improved their performance, it is essential to know the fiber characteristics. The mechanical Properties of Natural fibers as listed in Table 1.
Nanoparticles can substantially improve the mechanical properties of the host matrix materials. Even at very low filler volume content such as 1-5%, a considerable improvement of the mechanical properties can be achieved.
It is observed that for some nanocomposites, with the same filler volume fraction, the stiffness and strength increases as the particle size decreases.
In general, the stiffness of nanocomposites tends to increase as the filler volume fraction increases. This function may be nonlinear. There may exist a critical volume fraction beyond which the stiffness starts decrease.
Table 1 Mechanical Properties of Natural fibers [10]
4. Result and Discussion Polymer nanocomposites signify as the most encouraging and promising family of materials science from the last decades and consequently gained much attention due to their unique characteristics of enhancing the mechanical and barrier properties of construction, cosmetics, medical sciences, food packaging and many other composite-based industries. Nanocomposites obtained from polymeric matrix (thermoplastics or thermosets) reinforced with nanosized fillers, such as nano-size particles, carbon nano-tubes or intercalated layers designated as a dynamic and active area of research. The synergistic reactions involving the matrix polymer and nanoparticle filler at the nanoscale level responsible for the enhanced properties; developed by the assimilation of slight quantity of nanofiller in polymer matrix.
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Hari and Pukanzsky [12] and Henrique et al [13] have studied that the general idea of nanocomposites is based on the concept of creating a very large interface between the nanosized-building blocks and the polymer matrix. Very often, the homogeneous distribution of the nanosized particles is problematic. Nanocomposites, a highperformance material, exhibit unusual properties, combinations, and unique design possibilities. Aggregation phenomena is a major subject in composites having spherical nanoparticles. Due to the nanoscale size of the reinforcing phase, the interface -to -volume ratio is significantly higher than in conventional composites. As a result, the volume fraction of the second phase can be reduced, without degradation of the desired properties. The Scanning Micro scopic images of nano materials shown in the fig.6.
(a) Nano Tubes
(b) Nano Graphite
( c) Nano Clay
(d) Nano Silica
Fig. 6. Various nano materials micro images.
Gaurav et al [15] have considered the challenges in the area of development of adequate methods of processing for nanocomposites. This special issue was devoted to the emerging polymer nanocomposite processing techniques. Also, this special issue intended to cover the entire range of basic and applied materials research focusing on rheological characterization, nanoparticle dispersion, and functional properties of polymer nanocomposites for sensors, actuators, and other multifunctional applications 5. CONCLUSION In the present review, the fabrication, the mechanical properties, process parameter and the modern applications of natural reinforced nano polymer composites have been reported. Natural reinforced nano polymer composites are highly environmental affable compared to other conventional polymer composites with synthetic fibres reinforced. The benefit of the nanoparticle fillers has caused a surge in investment and research across the world. From the literature available however, there is currently a lack of knowledge on the effect of mechanical properties has on polymer nanocomposites. Although considerable amount of studies have demonstrated that drilling can structurally damage conventional composite materials, no work has investigated the effects on nanocomposites. Along with assessing the damage occurring can cause on various polymer nanocomposites, it is crucial that any potential health or environmental risks associated with the materials are fully understood and characterized. However, Nano materials such as Nano Silica Carbide (n-SiC) and Nano Clay can be added into the natural fibre reinforced polymer composite to overcome the water absorption problem. As the popularity of natural fibers in industrial uses expands there are new opportunities for hard fibers and jute to reach high end value markets. The scope of possible uses of the future fibers is enormous.
The mechanical and physical property of natural fiber varies fiber to fiber. Treatment of Sisal fiber with NaoH solution improves tensile strength but does not effectively influence the fatigue lives. Natural fiber exhibit superior mechanical properties such as flexibility, modulus and stiffness compared to glass-fiber. The combination of Glass/Jute,Glass/Sisal increases the tensile strength, Flexural and Impact strengths. The curing of Resin increased the energy absorption, reduced the damage depth.
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References [1] Vogelesang L. B, Vlot A.: Development of fibre metal laminates for advance, Journal of Materials and Process Technology. Vol.103, 2000, PP:1. [2] Jawaid, M.; Abdul Khalil, H.P.S. Cellulosic/synthetic fibre reinforced polymer hybrid composites: A review. Carbohydr. Polym. 2011, 86, 1– 18. [3] Faruk, Omar, Andrzej K. Bledzki, Hans-Peter Fink, and Mohini Sain. "Biocomposites Reinforced with Natural Fibers: 2000–2010." Progress in Polymer Science (0). doi: 10.1016/j.progpolymsci.2012.04.003 [4] Kalia, S.; Kaith, B.; Kaur, I. Pretreatments of natural fibers and their application as reinforcing material in polymer composites—A review. Polym. Eng. Sci. 2009, 49, 1253–1272. [5] Hari, J.; Pukanzsky, B. Nanocomposites: Preparation, structure, properties. In Applied Plastics Engine Handbook: Processing Materials; Kutz, M., Ed.; Elsevier Inc.: Waltham, MA, USA, 2011; pp. 109–142. [6] Denault, J.; Labrecque, B. Technology Group on Polymer Nanocomposites; Boucherville: Québec, QC, Canada, 2004. [7] Njuguna, J., Pielichowski, K., and Zhu, H. (Eds.). Health and Environmental Safety of Nanomaterials: Polymer Nancomposites and Other Materials Containing Nanoparticles. Elsevier (2014). [8] Kamel, S. Nanotechnology and its applications in lignocellulosic composites, a mini review. eXPRESS Polym. Lett. 2007, 1, 546–575. [9] Alexandre, M.; Dubois, P. Polymer-layered silicate nanocomposites: Preparation, properties and uses of a new class of materials. Mater. Sci. Eng. R Rep. 2000, 28, 1–63. [10] Damien M. Marquis, Éric Guillaume and Carine Chivas-Joly. Properties of Nanofillers in Polymer, Nanocomposites and Polymers with Analytical Methods, Dr. John Cuppoletti (Ed.), ISBN: 978-953-307-352-1, 2011. [11] Dineshwaran Vijayakumar, M. Mudhukrishnan, S.K. Malhotra, K. Chandrasekaran, “Some Studies on Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastics Laminates Fabricated by Film Stacking Method”, Advanced Materials Manufacturing & Characterization Vol.3, Issue 1, 2013, PP: 1-4. [12] Hari, J.; Pukanzsky, B. Nanocomposites: Preparation, structure, properties. In Applied PlasticsEngine Handbook: Processing Materials; Kutz, M., Ed.; Elsevier Inc.: Waltham, MA, USA,2011; pp. 109–142. [13] Henrique, P.; Camargo, C.; Satyanarayana, K.G.; Wypych, F. Nanocomposites: Synthesis, structure, properties and new application opportunities. Mater. Res. 2009, 12, 1–39. [14] Kumar AP, Depan D, Tomer NS, Singh RP. Nanoscale particles for polymer degradation and stabilization-Trends and future perspectives. Progress in Polymer Science, 2009; 34: 479-515. [15] Gaurav Mago, Suprakas Sinha Ray, Meisha L. Shofner, Shanfeng Wang, and Jin Zhang, Polymer Nanocomposite Processing, Characterization, and Applications, Journal of Nanomaterials, Volume 2014, Article ID 403492, 2 pages, http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2014/403492.
ScienceDirect Materials Today: Proceedings 16 (2019) 1287–1296
www.materialstoday.com/proceedings
ICAMMAS17
Mechanical Characteristics and Terminological Behavior Study on Natural Fiber Nano reinforced Polymer Composite – A Review Ramu P a *, Jaya Kumar CV b and Palanikumar K c a,c b
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Sai Ram Institute of Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu , India. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sri Sai Ram Engineering College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu , India.
Abstract
In recent years, natural fibers with nano polymer composites are useful in the field of research, Engineering and Science as well it is used as an alternative reinforcement for conventional composite. Natural fibers are not only strong and light weight, but also relatively cheap and have properties like high specific strength, low weight, nonabrasive, eco-friendly and biodegradable. Generally used natural fibers like Jute, Sisal, Banana, Hemp, etc…, The reuse of waste natural fiber reinforcement of polymer is a sustainable option for the environment. The polymeric matrix materials along with suitable and proper filler and better filler/matrix create strong interaction between advanced and new methods or approaches. This enable to develop polymeric composites which shows great prospective applications in the construction of buildings, automotive, aerospace and packaging industries. Nano polymer composite shows considerable applications in different fields because of larger surface area, and greater aspect ratio, with fascinating properties. Being environmentally friendly, applications of nano polymer composites offer new technology and business opportunities for several sectors, such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and biotechnology industries. Hybrid nano-polymer composites exploit the synergy between natural fibers in a nanoreinforced polymer-based composites. This leads to improve the properties along with the environmental appeal. The mechanical properties of a natural fiber reinforced nano polymer composite depend on parameters like fiber strength, fiber length, chemical treatment and orientation in addition to fiber-matrix interfacial bond strength. This review article aims at the clarification of the research and development in the improvement of mechanical properties of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites along with end applications. © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and/or Peer-review under responsibility of International Conference on Advances in Materials, Manufacturing and Applied Sciences. Keywords: Natural Fibers, nano fillers, natural fibers, polymers, nano composites and hybrid composites
1. Introduction Natural fibers with Nano reinforced composites have been proven as an alternative to synthetic fiber in transportation such as wind turbine blades, prosthetics, smart memory, ship structures, bridge construction, automobiles, railway coaches and aerospace. Other applications include military, building, packaging, consumer products and construction industries for ceiling paneling, partition boards. Vogelesang and Vlot [1] have reported that the natural fiber nano reinforced composite is widely increased in both industrial and domestic applications and also fundamental research. They are renewable, cheap, completely or partially recyclable, biodegradable and non hazardous material. *Corresponding author. Tel.: +0-99-4069-3877 ; fax: +0-442-251-2323 . E-mail address: [email protected] 2214-7853 © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and/or Peer-review under responsibility of International Conference on Advances in Materials, Manufacturing and Applied Sciences.
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Jawaid and Abdul [2] have studied that the natural fiber nano composites have low density and medium cost as well as satisfactory mechanical properties such as high specific strength, stiffness and the relatively good energy absorbing characteristics. This makes them as an attractive due to easy availability and renewability of raw materials. Synthetic fibers, such as carbon fibers and glass fibers, create severe ecological, and health hazard problems for the workers employed in manufacturing of their corresponding composites, when it is as compared to the composites derived from natural fibers Faruk et al [3] have studied the various types of natural fibers and they are divided into animal fibres and plant cellulose fibres. Plants that produce natural fibres are categorized into primary and secondary depending on the utilization. Primary plants are grown for their fibres while secondary plants are plants, where the fibres are extracted from the waste product. There are 6 major types of fibres namely; bast fibres, leaf fibres, fruit fibres, grass fibres, straw fibres and other types (wood and roots etc.). There are thousands of natural fibres available and therefore, there are many research interests in utilization of natural fibres to improve the properties of composites. Recycled cellulose fibres are obtained from cellulosic waste products such as paper, newspaper, cardboard and magazine. Fig.1. shows the classification of natural fibres.
Fig.1. Classification of natural and synthetic fibers [2]
Kalia et al [4] have investigated that natural fiber shows relatively poor bonding interactions, highly water absorbed and relatively less life time. The weaker interfacial or adhesion bonds between highly hydrophilic natural fibers and hydrophobic, non-polar organophilic polymer matrix, leads to considerable decrease in the properties of
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the composites and, thus, significantly obstructs their industrial utilization and production. However, several approaches and schemes have been established to supplement this deficiency in compatibility, including the introduction of coupling agents and/or various surface modification techniques. From past few years virtually, everything became “nano”, even materials, which have been around for more than a hundred years, like carbon black, which have been extensively used as the reinforcement or fillers in rubbers. Nano fillers belong to organic and inorganic in nature. The particles like silica (SiO2), titanium dioxide (TiO2), calcium carbonate (CaCO3), or polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS), etc., are inorganic filler. However, the filler, such as coir nanofiller, carbon black and cellulosic nanofiller, and many others are derived organically and naturally represent organic nanofillers. Hari et al [5] have reported that, the general idea of nanocomposites is based on the concept of creating a very large interface between the nanosized-building blocks and the polymer matrix. Very often, the homogeneous distribution of the nanosized particles is problematic. Denault and Labrecque [6] have defined that the Nanocomposites belong the groups called nanomaterials, where a nano-object (particle) is distributed into a matrix. Generally, nanocomposite is a multiphase dense material in which at least one of its phase has either one, two or three measurements lower than 100 μm. The nanocomposites exhibit unique characteristics and comparably better properties than conventional or traditional composites such as glass fiber reinforced composites. Nowadays, a great deal of research and study is in progress towards various fillers to form a huge variety of nanocomposites. The nanofiller in nanocomposite material are the main components and it is constituted of inorganic/inorganic, inorganic/organic, or organic/organic sources. Polymer nanocomposites are polymers (thermoplastics, thermosets, or elastomers) that have been reinforced with small quantities (less than 5% by weight) of nano-sized particles with high aspect ratios (L/h > 300). 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS An increased awareness that non-renewable resources have become scarce and our inevitable dependence on renewable resources has arisen. This century is called the cellulosic century, because more and more renewable plant resources for products are being discovered. It has generally been stated that the natural fibers are renewable and sustainable, but they are in fact, neither. The living plants are renewable and sustainable from which the natural fibers are taken, but not the fibers themselves. 2.1. Fiber source The plants, which produce natural fibers, are classified as primary and secondary depending on their utilization. Primary plants are those grown for their fiber content while secondary plants are plants in which the fibers are produced as a by-product. Jute, hemp, kenaf, and sisal are examples of primary plants. Pineapple, oil palm and coir are examples of secondary plants. There are six basic types of natural fibers. They are classified as follows: best fibers (jute, flax, hemp, ramie and kenaf), leaf fibers (abaca, sisal and pineapple), seed fibers (coir, cotton and kapok), core fibers (kenaf, hemp and jute), grass and reed fibers (wheat, corn and rice) and all other types (wood and roots). Few natural fibers listed and explained below [3]. 2.1.1. Flax Flax, Linum usitatissimum, belongs to the best fibers. It is grown in temperate regions and is one of the oldest fiber crops in the world. The bast fiber flax is most frequently used in the higher value-added textile markets. Nowadays, it is widely used in the composites area. 2.1.2. Hemp Another notable best fiber crop is hemp, which belongs to the Cannabis family. It is an annual plant that grows in temperate climates. Hemp is currently the subject of a European Union subsidy for non-food agriculture, and a considerable initiative in currently underway for their further development in Europe.
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2.1.3. Jute Jute is produced from plants of the genus Corchorus which includes about 100 species. It is one of the cheapest natural fibers and is currently the bast fiber with the highest production volume. Bangladesh, India and China provide the best condition for the growth of jute. Ray and co-workers [48–50] extensively investigated alkali treated jute fiber reinforced with vinyl ester resin. 2.1.4. Kenaf Kenaf belongs to the genus Hibiscus and there are about 300 species. Kenaf is a new crop in the United States and shows good potential as a raw material for usage in composite products. Latest advances in decortications equipment which separates the core from the bast fiber combined with fiber shortages, have renewed the interest in kenaf as a fiber source. 2.1.5. Sisal Sisal is an agave (Agave sisalana) and commercially produced in Brazil and East Africa. Between 1998–2000 and 2010, the global demand for sisal fiber and its products is expected to decline by an annual rate of 2.3% as agricultural twine. The traditional market for fibers continues to be eroded by synthetic substitutes and by the adoption of harvesting technologies that utilizes less or no twine. 2.1.6. Abaca The abaca/banana fiber, which comes from the banana plant, is durable and resistant to seawater. Abaca, the strongest of the commercially available cellulose fibers, is indigenous to the Philippines and is currently produced there and in Ecuador. It was once the preferred cordage fiber for marine applications. 2.2 Nano materials Nano particles, such as carbon nanotubes, nanoclays, and graphenes, are commonly used in the polymer nano composites to alter the chemical, mechanical, electrical, optical, and thermal properties. However, a number of vital issues need to be addressed before the full potential of polymer nanocomposites can actually be realized. The improvements in mechanical, thermal, electrical, and rheological properties of polymers by addition of nanoparticles depend upon a number of factors, such as processing technique, interfacial interaction between nanoparticles and host polymers, and state of nanoparticle dispersion. While a number of advances have recently been made in the area of polymer nanocomposites, the studies on understanding the effects of processing parameters on the structure, morphology, and functional properties of polymer nano composites are deficient. The relationship between the structural distributions and the ultimate properties of the polymer nanocomposites also need to be elucidated. There is a need for better characterization techniques to quantify the concentrations and distributions of nanoparticles as well as to assess the nature of the interface between the polymer and nanoparticles. Nanocomposites are composite materials in which the matrix material is reinforced by one or more separate nanomaterials in order to improve performance properties. The most common materials used as matrix in nanocomposites are polymers (e.g. epoxy, nylon, polyepoxide, polyetherimide), ceramics (e.g. alumina, glass, porcelain), and metals (e.g. iron, titanium, magnesium). Nanomaterials are generally considered as the materials that have a characteristic dimension (e.g. grain size, diameter of cylindrical cross-section, layer thickness) smaller than 100 nm. Nanomaterials can be metallic, polymeric, ceramic, electronic, or composite. Nanomaterials are classified into three categories depending on their geometry, as shown in Fig. 2.
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Fig.2. Various types of nanoscale materials [14]
Nanoparticles: When the three dimensions of particulates are in the order of nanometers, they are referred as equi-axed (isodimensional) nanoparticles or nanogranules or nanocrystals.
Nanotubes: When two dimensions are in the nanometer scale and the third is larger, forming an elongated structure, they are generally referred as ‘nanotubes’ or nanofibers/whiskers/nanorods.
Nanolayers: The particulates which are characterized by only one dimension in nanometer scale are nanolayers/nanoclays/nanosheets/nanoplatelets. These particulate is present in the form of sheets of one to a few nanometer thick to hundreds to thousands nanometers long
Njuguna et al [7] have researched on release of nano sized particles from nano composites and so far there is no standardized method established to simulate the release scenarios. Literature available, including the studies performed on nano composite, it can be said that most studies illustrated that nano-sized particles are released during some of the scenarios, but to a certain extent while laboratory experiments repeatability remains challenging. Kamel [8] has defined as nanometer scale items (10−9 m) the term nano is used. A nanometer is, therefore, equivalent to the billionth of a meter, or 80,000 times thinner than a human hair. The nano meter range, covers sizes smaller than the wavelength range of visible light but bigger than several atoms. Alexandre and Dubois [9] have listed and categorized nano materials into three groups; nano tubes, nano particles, and nano layers, depending on the number of measurements of the dispersed particles that are in the nanometer range 2.2.1 Nano Clay Nano clay fillers can be natural or synthetic clays, as well as phosphates of transition metals. The most widely used reinforcement is clay due to its natural abundance and its very high form factor. Clay-based nano composites generate an overall improvement in physical performances. The most widely used ones are the phyllosilicates (smectites). They have a shell-shaped crystalline structure with nano metric thickness. Clays are classified according to their crystalline structures and also to the quantity and position of the ions within the elementary mesh.
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2.2.2 Carbon Nano Tubes Carbon nanotubes (CNT) were discovered by [Oberlin et al. (1976), Endo et al. (1976)], without application, and then rediscovered by [Iijima (1991)]. The fibre could present a nanometric diameter and length of some orders of magnitude in comparison with its diameter. In general, three kinds of carbon nanotubes are considered (Fig.3)
Fig.3. Carbon nanotubes. a) Multi-Wall carbon nanotube (MWCNT). Idealized view; b) SEM image of nanotubes obtained by arc with 30 to 40 wt% catalytic residues (width of picture corresponds to 2 µm); c) TEM image showing the catalytic residues within nanotubes with 25 wt% catalyst residue. [10]
• Single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNT). They present a diameter between 1 and 2 nm; • Double-wall carbon nanotubes (DWCNT). Diameter is between 2 and 4 nm; • Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). They present a diameter between 4 and 150 nm These nanotubes present a theoretical range of properties incredible (Young’s modulus up to 1 TPa, heat conductivity of 3000 W.m−1 .K −1 , electric conductivity of 107 S.m−1 , etc.), but considering perfect nano tubes individually makes no sense. They nevertheless provide a wide range of new properties when used in nano composites, depending on their purity and dispersion in the matrix. 2.2.3 Synthetic nanoparticles Nanoparticles are not solely a product of modern technology, but are also created by natural processes such as volcano eruptions or forest fires. Naturally occurring nanoparticles also include ultrafine sand grains of mineral origin (e.g.oxides, carbonates). In addition to commercially produced nanoparticles, many are unintentionally created by the combustion of diesel fuel (ultrafine particles) or during barbecuing. Synthetic nanoparticles find use in many applications. This includes dispersions in gases (e.g. as aerosols), as ultrafine powder, for films, distributed in fluids (dispersed, for example ferrofluids) or embedded in a solid body (nanocomposites). The present dossier focuses on those nanoparticles present in a solid state 2.3 Matrixes for Polymer Composites Matrix materials or resins in case of polymer matrix composites can be classified according to their chemical base i.e. thermoplastic or thermosets. Thermoplastics have excellent toughness, resilience and corrosion resistance but have fundamental disadvantage compared to thermosetting resins, in that they have to be molded at elevated temperature. The main thermoplastic used in fiber reinforced plastics are unsaturated polyesters which have lower cost but are usually not as strong as thermoset plastics like epoxy resins. Hence the main research effort is concentrated on thermosetting plastics. Thermosetting plastics or thermosets are formed with a network molecular structure of primary covalent bonds. Some thermosets are cross-linked by heat or a combination of heat and pressure. Others may be cross-linked by chemical reaction, which occurs at room temperature. The effects of the incorporation of natural fibers in petrochemical based thermoplastics and thermoset matrixes were extensively studied. Polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and PVC (polyvinyl chloride) were used for the thermoplastic matrixes. Polyester, epoxy resin, phenol formaldehyde, and vinyl esters were used for the thermoset matrices and are reportedly the most widely used matrices for natural fiber reinforced polymer composites.
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2.3.1 Thermosetting matrix The main advantages of thermosetting polymer matrix materials are melted with low temperature melting point and also easily mixed with fibers prior to curing. The important limitation of thermosetting polymer matrix is irreversible. In general, Polyesters is highly usable thermosetting matrix FRP composites, because of handling flexibility, dimension wise stable, ease of handling, dimensional stability, excellent mechanical strength, electrical resistance, chemical properties and available at low cost. They are commonly applied in hand lay-up and spray-up processes. Types of thermosetting matrix are listed in the below Fig.4. 2.3.1.1 Epoxy Epoxy resins are the most commonly used thermoset plastic in polymer matrix composites. Epoxy resins are a family of thermoset plastic materials which do not give off reaction products when they cure and so have low cure shrinkage. They also have good adhesion to other materials, good chemical and environmental resistance, good chemical properties and good insulating properties. The epoxy resins are generally manufactured by reacting epichlorohydrin with bisphenol. Different resins are formed by varying proportions of the two: as the proportion of epichlorohydrin is reduced the molecular weight of the resin is increased. The excellent properties of epoxy (good adhesion, mechanical properties, low moisture content, little shrinkage, and processing ease) make it one of the best matrix materials for composites. 2.3.2 Thermoplastic matrix In recent trend the usage of thermoplastics matrix materials are widely increased than the thermoset matrix material, due to the faster processing and curing. On the other hand, thermoplastics do not undergo a chemical reaction on application of heat. They simply melt on application of heat and pressure to form a component. Thermoplastics are softened and they undergo large and rapid change in viscosity with variation in temperature. Thermoplastics are repeatedly softened by heating and hardened by cooling. Types of thermoplastic matrix are listed in the below Fig.5.
Fig. 4. Types of thermoset polymers [11]
Fig.5. Types of Thermoplastic polymers [11]
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The process is reversible by allowing a reasonable level of process waste and the recycled material is reused without significant effect on the end product. Polypropylene, Polycarbonate, Polystyrene, Nylon and Polyethylene are the most common thermoplastic matrix used in FRP/Composites. They have an excellent chemical resistance to acids and alkalis and have good resistance to organic solvents. Their relatively low melting points allow for rapid processing at lower cost. Nylon and Acetal are highly resistant to organic solvents and are also used in increased mechanical properties. 3. Mechanical properties The properties of natural fiber reinforced nano polymer composites differ among cited works, because different fibers were used, different moisture conditions were present, and different testing methods were employed. The natural fiber reinforced nano polymer composites performance depends on several factors, including fibers chemical composition, cell dimensions, microfibrillar angle, defects, structure, physical properties, and mechanical properties, and also the interaction of a fiber with the polymer. In order to expand the use of natural fibers for composites and improved their performance, it is essential to know the fiber characteristics. The mechanical Properties of Natural fibers as listed in Table 1.
Nanoparticles can substantially improve the mechanical properties of the host matrix materials. Even at very low filler volume content such as 1-5%, a considerable improvement of the mechanical properties can be achieved.
It is observed that for some nanocomposites, with the same filler volume fraction, the stiffness and strength increases as the particle size decreases.
In general, the stiffness of nanocomposites tends to increase as the filler volume fraction increases. This function may be nonlinear. There may exist a critical volume fraction beyond which the stiffness starts decrease.
Table 1 Mechanical Properties of Natural fibers [10]
4. Result and Discussion Polymer nanocomposites signify as the most encouraging and promising family of materials science from the last decades and consequently gained much attention due to their unique characteristics of enhancing the mechanical and barrier properties of construction, cosmetics, medical sciences, food packaging and many other composite-based industries. Nanocomposites obtained from polymeric matrix (thermoplastics or thermosets) reinforced with nanosized fillers, such as nano-size particles, carbon nano-tubes or intercalated layers designated as a dynamic and active area of research. The synergistic reactions involving the matrix polymer and nanoparticle filler at the nanoscale level responsible for the enhanced properties; developed by the assimilation of slight quantity of nanofiller in polymer matrix.
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Hari and Pukanzsky [12] and Henrique et al [13] have studied that the general idea of nanocomposites is based on the concept of creating a very large interface between the nanosized-building blocks and the polymer matrix. Very often, the homogeneous distribution of the nanosized particles is problematic. Nanocomposites, a highperformance material, exhibit unusual properties, combinations, and unique design possibilities. Aggregation phenomena is a major subject in composites having spherical nanoparticles. Due to the nanoscale size of the reinforcing phase, the interface -to -volume ratio is significantly higher than in conventional composites. As a result, the volume fraction of the second phase can be reduced, without degradation of the desired properties. The Scanning Micro scopic images of nano materials shown in the fig.6.
(a) Nano Tubes
(b) Nano Graphite
( c) Nano Clay
(d) Nano Silica
Fig. 6. Various nano materials micro images.
Gaurav et al [15] have considered the challenges in the area of development of adequate methods of processing for nanocomposites. This special issue was devoted to the emerging polymer nanocomposite processing techniques. Also, this special issue intended to cover the entire range of basic and applied materials research focusing on rheological characterization, nanoparticle dispersion, and functional properties of polymer nanocomposites for sensors, actuators, and other multifunctional applications 5. CONCLUSION In the present review, the fabrication, the mechanical properties, process parameter and the modern applications of natural reinforced nano polymer composites have been reported. Natural reinforced nano polymer composites are highly environmental affable compared to other conventional polymer composites with synthetic fibres reinforced. The benefit of the nanoparticle fillers has caused a surge in investment and research across the world. From the literature available however, there is currently a lack of knowledge on the effect of mechanical properties has on polymer nanocomposites. Although considerable amount of studies have demonstrated that drilling can structurally damage conventional composite materials, no work has investigated the effects on nanocomposites. Along with assessing the damage occurring can cause on various polymer nanocomposites, it is crucial that any potential health or environmental risks associated with the materials are fully understood and characterized. However, Nano materials such as Nano Silica Carbide (n-SiC) and Nano Clay can be added into the natural fibre reinforced polymer composite to overcome the water absorption problem. As the popularity of natural fibers in industrial uses expands there are new opportunities for hard fibers and jute to reach high end value markets. The scope of possible uses of the future fibers is enormous.
The mechanical and physical property of natural fiber varies fiber to fiber. Treatment of Sisal fiber with NaoH solution improves tensile strength but does not effectively influence the fatigue lives. Natural fiber exhibit superior mechanical properties such as flexibility, modulus and stiffness compared to glass-fiber. The combination of Glass/Jute,Glass/Sisal increases the tensile strength, Flexural and Impact strengths. The curing of Resin increased the energy absorption, reduced the damage depth.
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