Ecolaminados de Pead-Fibras de Fiques.

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a research made to find out alternatives for using short fiber of the "fique" plant (cabuya). These residues result from the manufacture of sacks for the storage of grains and vegetables such as coffee, rice and potatoes. Laminates of recycled high-density polyethylene, used as a matrix for the incorporation of the fique fiber, which was prepared in a similar way to the leftover dust, were produced in this research. These laminates were compared to other materials but using virgin high-density polyethylene. The content of the dust ranged from 7% to 55% by weight. 20% of Calcium carbonate was also tried as Filler. Up to 2 mm plates of the composite material were obtained by hot pressing at 180° C. Tensile behavior and Elastic Modulus results indicate that these laminates could appropriately be used instead of wood or pure polymers for applications in furniture, car industry, walls covering, etc. The findings of this research could directly benefit manufacturers of sacks and ropes that discard approximately 1,000 tons a year of a dusty waste of the fique fiber. Keywords: Composites, Fiber Reinforced Polymers, Polymer Laminates, Recycled High-Density Polyethylene, Natural Fibers, Fique Fiber, Cabuya, Fillers