Physical, Mechanical and Thermal Properties of an Epoxy Composite Reinforced With <i>Nauclea diderrichii</i> (Bilinga) Wood Particles
Mbelle Samuel Bisong, Elvis Mbou Tiaya, Claude Takoumbe, Honore Tchoumeni Tchami, Jacqueline Mefoung Djoukouo
Abstract
Developing new materials by recovering waste materials in the polymer reinforcement process helps to protect the environment and ensure a circular economy for these waste materials when they reach the end of their life cycle. This study shows the possibility of developing a new composite with bilinga and epoxy resin waste. Composites were realised by using cold pressure moulding technique with different pressures, particle sizes and reinforcement rate. Physical tests were carrying out to determine moisture content, water absorption rate and density by using a gravimetric method. Three‐point bending tests were used to determine flexural Young modulus and maximum break stress. Asymmetric Hot plane method with insulated rear face were used to determine thermal conductivity of composites. Results obtained show that moisture content varies from 2.3% to 6.65% and water absorption rate from 61% to 191%. These results allow us to say that this composite material has a hydrophilicity character. Young’s modulus of these materials is between 117 and 1951 MPa. Breaking stress of these composite materials is between 0.5 and 12.5 MPa. Results show that increasing compaction pressure also increases the mechanical properties of composite, as shown by standard EN312 for used in dry and humid environments. The thermal conductivity of the composite in between 0.18 and 0.27 W m −1 K −1 . These results confirm that the composite materials produced can be used in furniture manufacturing, thermal insulation for homes and ceilings, and the development of sandwich materials.