Manufacturing and Analysis of Natural Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastic Tapes Using a Novel Process Assembly

The natural fiber-reinforced thermoplastic tape was produced using a novel process assembly that involves drawframe and double belt press. First, the state-of-the-art film-stacking modified through integration of to supply fiber preforms for reinforcement, adding thermoplastics films as matrix material processing them unidirectional (UD tapes) Based on that, new approach investigated commingled sliver containing reinforcing polymer fibers manufacture UD tapes. This leads reduced flow path polymer, which is decisive parameter production efficiency. To ensure homogeneous distribution alignment after gilling, influence various parameters one another resulting quality were examined. As result, draft ratio in range 10 ± 2, low linear density (here 12 ktex) general use many thin contrast fewer heavier slivers advisable. differences impregnation thus mechanical performances tapes from both processes validated scanning electron microscopy testing. It found composite had 10% higher flexural modulus 34% strength compared film-stacking-based composites. In conclusion, could enable increase productivity volume fraction