THERMOPHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF THIN POLYPROPYLENE SHEETS REINFORCED WITH RESIDUES AND FIBERS FROM CHADS BOIS BORASSUS (RONIER)

The aim of this work is to determine the mechanical characteristics of thin polypropylene sheets reinforced with residues and fibres of Borassus wood from Chad for use in construction. Borassus is a palm tree whose wood is widely used in traditional and even modern construction in Africa for its mechanical strength and weather resistance. To do this, we formulated test specimens using different mass fractions (10%, 15% and 20%) of Borassus wood powder or fibres in the polypropylene matrix. After melting the polypropylene mixed with the powder or fibres, the specimens are produced under the effect of the compacting pressure in the mould. The moduli of elasticity obtained in three-point bending vary according to the type of composite : From 695.426 MPa to 824.87 MPa for FNTF from 495.140 MPa to 711.270 MPa for FNTM in the case of powders. From 323.194 MPa to 552.657 MPa for FibNTF from 506.475 MPa to 770.740 MPa for FibNTM in the case of fibres. Fracture stresses vary : from 29.061 MPa to 15.033 MPa for FNTF from 29.271 MPa to 20.378 MPa for FNTM in the case of powders. From 16.275MPa to 12.926 MPa for FibNTF from 16.100MPa to 15.008 MPa for FibNTM in the case of powders. Our results show an increase in moduli of elasticity and a decrease in bending fracture stresses when the levels of additives are increased, in line with the results of the literature. The composites developed in this way could be used in the construction of homes.