Usage of polyester textile wastes in composites

A composite material is produced by using polyester textile wastes as reinforcement material and mainly urea formaldehyde as matrix material. This composite is used in banks, tables, shelves, and pots. The bending strength and absorption properties of the textile reinforced composite are investigated and compared with fibreboard and medium density fibreboard which are alternative materials for the same end-uses. The,, polyester wastes such as, yarns, woven, and knitted fabrics cut at random dimensions are used as reinforcement material. Matrix material is prepared by mixing urea formaldehyde resin, ammonium sulphate, and flour in a weight ratio of 100:5: 10 consecutively. The bending strength of the textile reinforced composite is less than the fibreboard and the medium density fibreboard, but it absorbs less water. It seems that the properties of the textile reinforced composite can be improved by considering the test results obtained.