Mechanical Characterization of a Polymeric Composite Reinforced with Short Natural Fibers of Guadua Angustifolia Kunth (GAK)

This project addresses the need to develop sustainable, high-performance composite materials utilizing renewable natural resources, specifically short fibers from Guadua Angustifolia Kunth (GAK) available in Ecuador and Colombia. The primary goal is to comprehensively characterize the mechanical properties of these polymer matrix composites. Challenges related to fiber-matrix adhesion, stemming from the hydrophilic nature of the fiber, are investigated, alongside the exploration of surface modification techniques (alkaline treatments with NaOH and cold plasma) to enhance the interface. The methodology involves fiber extraction and physicochemical characterization (including chemical composition, IR, TGA, microscopy), composite fabrication via heat pressing/extrusion/injection while varying fiber morphology and loading, and mechanical characterization through tensile testing using strain gauges. Furthermore, numerical modeling and simulation using the Finite Element Method (FEA) will be implemented to validate the experimental mechanical behavior. The expected outcome is a significant advancement in the understanding of the mechanical behavior of these randomly oriented short-fiber composites, laying the groundwork for their potential industrial application as structural materials.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To characterize the mechanical properties of a new polymer matrix composite material reinforced with short natural fibers from Guadua Angustifolia Kunth (GAK) through mechanical testing and numerical validation using finite elements, aiming to advance the understanding of this material for subsequent structural use.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>nan