EFFECT OF WATER SOAKING ON THE MECHANICAL PERFORMANCE OF PLA/ GIANT REED {ARUNDO DONAX L.) COMPOSITES

Abstract

This work assesses the impact ofwater absorption on the mechanical performance of polylactic acid (PLA) composites reinforced with giant reed fibres. lnjection moulded composites with two different types of lignocellulosic fillers: fibres (F) and shredded biomass (S) obtained from giant reed plants, and four ratios, from 5 to 40% by weight, were tested. The mechanical tests performed allowed to identify the variations in density, tensile, flexura!, brittleness and damping properties befare and after water absorption saturation. Aesthetic changes were also evaluated by colour analysis.