Development and assessment to environmentally friendly natural fiber composites

Two different types of natural fibers (jute and sisal) were studied and characterized, using optical microscopy, pycnometry density, single filament and linear density tests. Jute fibers were processed into composite parts from woven fabrics raw-material and sisal fibers were also processed into final composite componentes but in the form of chopped mat. Those fibers were used to reinforce polyester and epoxy matrices and therefore produce composite plates by resin infusion molding. Finally, the final obtained composite plates were submitted to mechanical testing, in order to assess their relevant mechanical properties.Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT