MECHANICAL, DEGRADATION AND MORPHOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS ON TAMARINDUS INDICA REINFROCED POLY LACTIC ACID BIO-COMPOSITE FOR BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract

This research investigates the degradation and mechanical potential of Tamarindus Indiaca Fiber (TIF) reinforced into Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) resulting in a Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) that could be a potential alternative for prosthetic limbs. Fiber weight ratios at 10, 15, 20 and 25 wt%, were processed in micro and nano sizes individually through extrusion. Mechanical investigations were studied to analyze tensile, flexural, impact and hardness properties. Water Absorption Test (WAT) and Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) were performed for degradation studies. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) was used to study morphology. Nano TIF filled WPCs had superior properties than the micro TIF filled WPCs.