MISIS experts, together with colleagues from Thailand and India, have proposed the use of coconut leaf fibers as an environmentally friendly alternative to inorganic polymer composites. They can be used as reinforcement materials in the production of biocomposites, textiles, packaging and lightweight structures used in the construction and automotive industries. This was reported to socialbites.ca in MISIS.
“The results of the experiments showed that after treatment with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), non-cellulose substances disappeared from the surface of the fibers. This resulted in excellent structural and thermal stability of the fiber. Strength increased by 30-50%. Overall, improved mechanical, thermal and wear resistant properties. In our study, my colleagues and I confirmed the great potential of this material for use in the bioreinforcement of lightweight composite structures, Sergey Gorbatyuk, professor of the Department of Technological Equipment Engineering at MISIS University, told socialbites.ca.
The natural fibers of the leaves have excellent performance properties. Their use reduces carbon footprint, is biodegradable and renewable. Its lightness, good heat and sound insulation are also among its advantages.
Fiber from crops is inexpensive and readily available. While most of it is used for animal feed and domestic use, more is burned in the field, causing environmental pollution. Composite material manufacturers are currently using plant fibers such as jute, banana, flax, sisal, kenaf as reinforcements. In Russia, it is planned to adapt the technology using flax, technical hemp and nettle fibers as raw materials.
According to Sergey Gorbatyuk, the emergence of new polymer composites reinforced with natural fibers, as well as the optimization of components and the production process, will undoubtedly accelerate and expand their use in various industries, including the aerospace and marine industries.