The durability of jute fibre-reinforced phenolic composites

The physical and mechanical properties of jute composites have been studied under various humidity, hydrothermal and weathering conditions. The aging-induced deteriorative effect of these conditions on the dimensional stability, surface topography and mechanical properties of the composites was observed. The severity of aging was more detrimental in an accelerated water test as compared to the other exposure conditions. SEM observation reveals the fibre accentuation along with fibre breakage/splitting and surface discoloration in both natural and accelerated weathering of UV exposure. Some biological defacement in the form of fungal infestation appeared at the cut edges of weathered composites while extensive disfigurement was noticed on all surfaces under high humidity/-water-immersion. These results could be useful as an indicator for assessing the suitability of jute composites in damp and dry conditions. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.