Synthesis of Alfa (Stipa tenacissima L.)/Hemp Fiber-Reinforced UHMWPE: Impact of Fibers on Mechanical, Microstructural and Aspect Properties

The use of natural wastes and biomasses has become a strategic sector widely used for industrial applications to meet sustainable development and cost-savings for Indians. The future growth is likely depending on the availability of biodegradable materials. In this study, two types of fibers, such as alkali-treated alfa fiber (ATAF) and alkali-treated hemp fiber (ATHF) with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), were used for the hybridization. It exhibits substantial energy and cost savings to improve the material's strength. The samples are fabricated using the melt mixing method with six different laminates at various weight quantities of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Each sample was cut from the composite sheets and measured mechanical properties according to ASTM standards. The study shows a significant impact of fibers on the characteristics of mechanical and thermal properties. Compared with the matrix, the addition of hybrid fibers results in a 43% of improvement in strength. Hybridization fiber content up to 15% mixture decreased porosity to 21%. The UHMWPE/AFHF/AFAF/PVA composites possess higher crystallization peak and thermal stability was lower than that of UHMWPE. The thermogravimetric analysis was conducted, and the sample with 15% of fiber and 6% of PVA-reinforced hybrid composite indicated excellent thermal stability. Surface morphology is also performed to identify material behavior. This material is widely used in marine components, medical equipment, chemical holding tanks and food processing parts.