Utilization of various non-woven waste forms as reinforcement in polymeric composites

Abstract

In this study, various forms of non-woven waste were recycled for the manufacture of composites by the extrusion technique. The performance of the composites, as well as the effect of the reprocessing steps, was investigated with regards to the mechanical and thermal properties. A reinforcement material of polyester non-woven waste in differing forms (cut piece, fiber and particle) and a matrix of polypropylene (PP) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) were used. Performance tests were evaluated based on the type of reinforcement material. Particle form reinforced composites were subjected to reprocessing and tested for their performance. Results indicate that particle type reinforcement maintained better mechanical performance, whereas reinforcements using cut pieces and fibers showed enhanced thermal insulation with lower densities. The effect of the reprocessing of the particle forms has been observed positively on the tensile characteristics, especially up to the second stage.