Production of Biocomposites

Kernel cake residue after palm kernel oil extrachon is a good source of livestock feed. The other palm fruit bunch residues fire the boilers to generate steam and electricity for the processing plant. Trunks, fronds and kernel shells have even been used for the production of furniture, building materials (panel board), pulp and paper. Oil palm fiber extracted from the empty fruit bunches (43-65% cellulose and 13-25% hanicellulose) is being tested for production of biocomposites (Shinoj et al 2011). 

Most of the previous research on natural fibre composites has focused on reinforcements such as flax, hemp, sisal and jute, and thermoplastic and thermoset matrices. Some of these composites have been produced using matrices made of derivatives from cellulose, starch and lactic acid to develop fully biodegradable composites or biocomposites [52]. The emerging diversity of applications of natural fibre composites has seen the production of sandwich structures based on natural fibre composite skins (see Fig. 23.10). 

The products made out of polymeric materials may come in contact with different types of liquids during their service. The effect of moisture absorption on the mechanical characteristic of biocomposites has already been discussed. In this section, the effects of other types of liquids like naphthenic oil, diesel, petrol, etc., will be discussed. It is well understood that when composites are used for oil seals, marine articles, etc., the performance of the materials is affected due to the direct attack by the liquid substances. Besides, there is the possibility of accidental splashing of oils and greases that frequently happens in automobiles. The leaking of such substances may adversely affect the various parts of automobiles manufactured from composite materials. Therefore, the study of the effect of various liquids on the performance characteristics of polymer... 

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