EVALUATION OF SURFACE TREATMENT METHODS TO ENHANCE THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF COMPOSITES FABRICATED FROM WASTE CARPET

摘要

A major problem in recycling carpet waste is the presence of multiple components with diverse chemistry. For example, the use of stain resisting chemicals, such as flourochemicals, on carpet fibers can interfere with recycling methodologies. This research is focused on the surface treatment of waste carpet prior to epoxy infusion to fabricate carpet-polymer resin composite laminates using a newly developed process [1]. Various surface treatment compounds, comprising of at least one active agent such as group of aromatics or aliphatic, alcohol, ketones, ester, can be used to modify the fiber surface chemistry. This surface treatment will enhance the bonding between carpet fibers and the polymer resin matrix and, thereby, improve overall mechanical properties. Results of mechanical testing have showed an increase of ～30% flexural strength and flexural modulus, as compared with that of the composites made without any surface treatment.