부산대학교 도서관

This work investigates the combination of different fiber sizes (self-hybridization) on the mechanical properties of composite materials. High density polyethylene composites based on agave and pine fibers were prepared using different ratios of long and short fibers. Furthermore, the effect of coupling agent (maleated polyethylene) versus self-hybridization was evaluated. Several studies in the past have shown that coupling agents can improve the mechanical properties of natural fiber composites. Nevertheless, this study shows that a combination of two particle sizes is also an interesting option to increase mechanical properties like impact strength, as well as tensile and flexural moduli. On the other hand, the presence of coupling agent enhanced the fiber-matrix interfacial adhesion and its effect was more evident on the tensile strength.