Fabrication and Characterization of Bio Composite Based on Jute Fiber and Pine Rosin Modified Potato Starch

Abstract

Background- Composite materials have garnered significant attention from researchers in recent times. These materials exhibit notable variations in their physical and chemical characteristics and are comprised of two distinct components known as the matrix and the reinforcement.

Aim- The primary objective of this study was to investigate the fabrication and analysis of a bio-composite material using jute fibre and potato starch modified with pine rosin.

Methodology- The use of pine rosin modified starch as a matrix material, in conjunction with jute fibre as a reinforcing agent, has been employed in this study. Fibre characterizations were conducted to assess the mechanical and hygroscopic qualities, as well as to perform Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Result- Following comprehensive testing, JSTP15, a composite material containing 15% pine rosin in jute starch, exhibited superior tensile strength, modulus, flexural strength, modulus, and impact strength. JSTP15 also displayed significantly reduced water absorbency, approximately 26% less than the pine rosin-free composite, JSTP0. TGA analysis indicated a slower thermal deterioration rate in JSTP15 than in JSTP0. In contrast, DSC data suggested that pine rosin's inclusion increased thermal degradation. Furthermore, chemical affinity studies were conducted with various solutions, including benzene and a 5% acetic acid solution.

Conclusion- The modification of starch resin with the optimum percentage of pine rosin can enhance the mechanical, thermal, as well as water-resistant properties of the jute fibre reinforced composites.