Characterization of Compostability and Mechanical Properties for Linseed Oil Resin Composites Reinforced with Natural Fibers

This work characterizes biodegradation behavior and mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced composites made from renewable sources. A linseed oil-based thermoset is used as the polymer matrix. Bamboo, cotton, hemp and fiberglass are used as the reinforcing fibers. Although tensile properties of comparable material systems have been reported in literature, characterization of their compostability has not been studied. Our experimental results show that the natural fibers degrade well under controlled composting conditions, whereas the thermoset polymer matrix did not. Tensile properties of the material are improved significantly with fiberglass reinforcement, whereas the natural fiber reinforcement is able to enhance the material's ductility.