Mechanical Characterization of Polyester Matrix Composites Reinforced by <i>Neuropeltis acuminatas</i> Fibers and Properties Evaluation in Structures

This paper aims to determine the technical feasibility of introducing <i>Neuropeltis acuminatas</i> fibers into polymer matrix composites. The Young's modulus of polyester without reinforcement is higher than that of polyester containing <i>Neuropeltis acuminatas</i> fibers. The <i>Neuropeltis acuminatas</i> fibers are good candidates for reinforcing polyester resin composites. The results of three-point bending tests enabled us to compare Young's moduli as a function of fibers orientation between different reinforcement ratios. For unidirectional orientation, the mechanical properties of the composite changed significantly as a function of the <i>Neuropeltis acuminatas</i> fibers content ratio. A slight decrease in load is then observed, probably corresponding to the point of first macroscopic damage to the composite. This load recovery may reflect good adhesion at the fiber-matrix interface. During mechanical testing, increasing the level of randomly oriented fiber reinforcement (to levels of 35%, 45% and 55%) progressively increases the Young's modulus of the composites used. In unidirectional composites (at levels of 35%, 45% and 55%), the Young's modulus changes slightly before gradually decreasing. The linear elastic model implemented in the finite element calculation code was tested to verify the linear behaviour of the composite. The composite material exhibits a complex behaviour including damage under the three-point bending loadings.