High performance biocomposites

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Our previous work on biocomposites (BC) has led to important developments in processing, thereby advancing knowledge on the role of intrinsic fibre properties, matrix-fibre adhesion, and reinforcement and rupture mechanisms. The work has led to the development of BCs with high ductility and tenacity, the manufacture of injected products with a high fibre content (up to 70%), and the design of BCs from 100% renewable materials. The design of hybrid BCs through fibre modification, the addition of continuous fibres, and lamination brought the BCs to a level comparable to that of structural materials such as wood. The proposed research program aims to develop high-performance BC materials with the perspective of advancing knowledge of polymer-fibre interactions, developing their durability and long-term properties, and assessing their potential for new applications. The long-term objective of the project is to develop high-performance BCs. The short-term objectives are: 1)To study the durability and long-term performance of BCs; 2)To develop fundamental knowledge on property development, rupture mechanisms, and durability of BCs; 3)To investigate the potential of 3D printing to manufacture BCs with complex shapes; 4)To produce transparent BCs and evaluate their potential end-use; 5)To model the properties of BCs based on the intrinsic characteristics of fibres and polymers using new modeling approaches; 6)To evaluate the environmental impact of the developed BCs. Composites will be manufactured using a two-step process, extrusion of pellets or filament followed by-products or test samples manufacturing using injection molding, thermo-consolidation, and 3D printing. Advanced characterization tools include X-Ray diffraction, fatigue, creep, microstructure and surface chemistry analysis, thermal stability, durability, and aging. BC properties will be modeled using statistical and fundamental approaches. Data generated from this and previous research programs will be used to develop prediction models of BC properties. The environmental impact and the sustainability of the developed BCs will be assessed by evaluating greenhouse gas emissions from the developed BCs and comparing them to petroleum-based products and by conducting life cycle analysis of the developed BCs. The spin-offs of the research program include the advancement and deepening of knowledge on the adhesion mechanism between fibres and polymers; the reinforcement and fracture mechanism in BCs and their long-term behavior. Technological spin-offs include the development of innovative characterization tools to understand the implications of the intrinsic properties of fibres on the behavior of composites, the determination of optimal conditions for the shaping of BCs, the development of new materials for new structural and/or lucrative applications in various fields.