Comparative Study of Mechanical and Tribological Behaviour of Thermoplast-Based Composites: With Inorganic and Natural Particulate Fillers

Introduction

Matrix and reinforcement are two main components of a composite. The reinforcement materials are surrounded by matrix material and support them by maintaining their relative positions. The reinforcements impart their special mechanical and physical properties to increase or alter the matrix properties. A synergism produces material properties impossible from the individual constituent materials, whereas the large choice of matrix and associated reinforcement permits the designer of the merchandise or structure to settle on an optimum combination. The reinforcing material will be of the shape of particle (usually known as filler) or fibre. In a particle reinforced composites, the reinforcement can be of macro to nano size. It is generally not the physical dimensions of the particles by that the materials area unit classified; rather it's the mechanism of reinforcement. In an exceedingly little particle strengthened material the mechanism is on a molecular level whereas just in case of huge particle it is at macro level. The particles is also spread into or precipitated from the matrix; thus, the properties will be varied with the quantity and kind of dispersion.

In the recent years, rising concern towards environmental issues and the requirement for multifarious polymer-based materials has focused utilization of polymer composites reinforced with green reinforcement, i.e., materials derived from natural resources like trees they would like for a lot of varied compound-based materials has junction rectifier to increasing interest concerning polymer composites strengthened with inexperienced reinforcement, i.e., materials derived from natural resources like trees etc. The bio degradable composites, or green composites, have shown an enhancement of interest owing to their recyclability, biodegradability and torrential availableness (Thakur et al., 2012).

Globalization is making us more aware of energy conservation, nature preservation and natural solutions to everyday needs. Golden fiber additionally referred as jute fiber is the most vital and versatile natural fiber of choice after cotton with endless prospects (Basu and Roy, 2008). Jute fiber is a natural composite of cellulose, hemicellulose and polymer (Xia et al., 2010). It is fully perishable eco- friendly, renewable and inexpensive (Sanjay and Yogesha, 2016). This natural fiber has drawn the attention of the consumers because a recent study has revealed that the greenhouse gas emissions by the jute are negative. To make more use of biodegradable jute products due to the natural advantages market has started producing rigid packing reinforced plastics made up of jute fiber. Jute is used in making different types of product in different sizes and shapes ranging from shopping to fashion. For instance, carpets, bags, atmospheric friendly coffins, etc. Jute has high hygroscopic property, strength; they are long lasting, flexible and drainage properties. Jute fibers are good for soil and the jute stalks left after the fiber has been extracted may help to meet the worlds need for wood pulp, as well as being a renewable source of cooking fuel and prevents from soil erosion (Datta. 2009). Jute fibers have the ability to get mixed with both the natural as well as synthetic fibers to make various useful products. Some alterations with acids and anhydrides enhance inherent drawbacks such as breaking strength, thermal stability, color fastness, etc) of jute fibers (Mondal et al., 2014).