The accelerated aging effect of salt water on lignocellulosic fibre reinforced composites

In recent years natural fibre reinforced composite materials have received an increasing attention in consideration of their biodegradability and admirable mechanical properties. The present paper reveals the experimental observations and results of accelerated aging in the cases of ecological composite materials made by lignocellulosic fibres and an ecofriendly resin, when exposed to salt water and temperature. In particular, this research aims at verifying the potential of flax, as a natural fibre reinforcement, coupled with a vinylester with low content of styrene as matrix. Two types of specimens, dried and conditioned, were tested and results compared in terms of flexural strength. Fluid absorption was also monitored. In addition, surface characterization by 3D digital microscope was implemented. Results show an effectiveness of flax as reinforcement, but also a significant drop in flexural properties due to the water absorption which induced the degradation of the fibre/matrix interface.